African mallow (Anisodontea spp.) is a lush tropical shrub prized for its colorful flowers and attractive foliage. These plants thrive in warm environments but occasionally need to be transplanted to new locations to allow them to grow to their full size and beauty. Transplanting an African mallow must be done with care to ensure the plant adapts and flourishes in its new setting.
Follow this step-by-step guide to successfully transplant your African mallow shrubs while minimizing stress and shock to the plants
Choosing the Best Time to Transplant
Timing is critical when transplanting African mallows. The ideal time is during the plant’s dormant season in early spring before new growth emerges or in fall after flowering concludes. Temperate seasons mean less heat stress and lower risk of shocking the plant.
Specifically, transplant African mallows:
- In early spring once chance of frost has passed
- In fall approximately 6-8 weeks before first expected frost
- When daytime temperatures range between 65-75°F
Avoid transplanting during summer heat or winter freezes when plants are most vulnerable.
Selecting a Transplant Site
African mallows require some specific growing conditions to thrive. When choosing a transplant site, look for:
- Full sun exposure to partial afternoon shade
- Rich, well-draining soil high in organic matter
- A sheltered location protected from strong winds
- Enough space for mature size up to 6 feet tall and wide
Amend native soil if needed to improve drainage and nutrients.
Preparing the Plant for Transplanting
Proper preparation is key to reduce transplant shock. One week before moving the African mallow:
- Cease fertilizing to slow growth
- Prune back any dead or damaged branches and leaves
- Water the plant deeply the day before transplanting
- Carefully dig around the roots to cut any circling ones
- Prepare root ball for transport by wrapping in burlap
This prep work helps set the plant up for successful establishment after transplanting.
Digging Up and Moving the African Mallow
When ready to transplant, follow these important steps:
- Water the plant thoroughly the day before
- Dig a trench around the root ball, about 12 inches out from the trunk
- Support the root ball with a shovel as you gently lift the entire shrub
- Keep the root ball intact when moving the African mallow to its new home
Avoid dallying once the plant is out of the ground. Prevent the roots from drying out by moving it quickly.
Preparing the Planting Hole
Dig a wide, shallow planting hole in the new location, approximately twice the width of the root ball. The hole should only be as deep as the root ball height. Also:
- Loosen and mix amendments into the soil dug from the hole
- Partially backfill the hole and mound soil in the center
- Place the African mallow root ball on the mound to prevent settling too low
These steps encourage proper drainage to prevent root rot in the transplanted mallow.
Completing the Transplant
To finish transplanting the African mallow:
- Carefully place the root ball in the prepared hole
- Ensure the top of the root ball sits 1-2 inches above ground level
- Cut away any squeezed or circling roots around the edge
- Backfill the hole with amended soil, tamping gently to stabilize
- Water deeply until soil is fully saturated
- Spread 2-3 inches of mulch around the base
Proper planting depth and ample water are vital for establishment.
Caring for the Transplant in First Few Weeks
Special care is required after transplanting to nurture the African mallow’s root development in its new location:
- Water whenever the top few inches of soil become dry
- Avoid fertilizing for 6-8 weeks after transplanting
- Check for signs of stress like wilting and treat promptly
- Stake the shrub if needed to provide support in windy areas
- Monitor for pests that may attack stressed plants
- Make temporary shade if hot sun scorches the leaves
With attentive aftercare, the African mallow will recover from transplant stress and flourish.
Long-Term Care of Transplanted African Mallows
Once established after transplanting, continue proper care of your African mallows:
- Water deeply 2-3 times per week in hot weather
- Resume fertilizing 3 months after transplanting
- Prune any dead branches and shape as desired
- Monitor for pests like aphids or spider mites
- Re-apply mulch annually to retain moisture
- Propagate plants by taking cuttings in spring
With good growing conditions and care, transplanted African mallows will thrive for years to come.
Transplanting an established African mallow takes time and diligence, but the rewards are plentiful. Follow this guide for the best results moving your shrub to a new location. Pay close attention in the weeks after transplanting to help the plant recover from the shock and settle happily into its new garden home.
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FAQ
Can mallow be transplanted?
How do you transplant globe mallow?
How do you care for African mallow?
Does Cape Mallow like sun or shade?
How do you grow African Mallow?
Fertilize more often during the growing season and in warmer and brighter climates. African mallow grows vertically and new growth will emerge from the top of the plant. African mallow can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 8a-11b. Find your local hardiness zone here . The seeds of African mallow can be used to grow new plants!
Can African Mallow be grown outdoors?
African mallow can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 8a-11b. Find your local hardiness zone here . The seeds of African mallow can be used to grow new plants! After your plant flowers, any seeds that formed can be collected and germinated in potting soil.
How do you care for African Mallow?
Adding a handful of perlite to regular store-bought potting soil should do the trick! African mallow is a fast growing plant and may deplete the nutrients in its soil over time. Replenish them with a gentle organic fertilizer or compost every 1-2 months depending on your location and season.
Is African Mallow a hibiscus?
Striking when in bloom, award-winning Anisodontea capensis (African Mallow) is an upright evergreen sub-shrub boasting showy pink flowers with raspberry red centers and veins. Resembling small hibiscus, they bloom profusely from spring until frost or all year round in warm climates. The blossoms attract bees and butterflies.