How to Transplant a Dwarf Ruellia

Ruellia brittoniana, also known as dwarf ruellia or dwarf Mexican petunia, is a tender perennial grown as an annual in colder climates. The plant is widely adaptable to a large variety of soils and environmental conditions, drought tolerant, and blooms profusely in colors of white, pink and purple. Unfortunately, it also propagates itself prolifically by seed and rhizomes, and is named as a category I invasive in Florida. Commonly used as a border or ground cover, dwarf ruellia is easily transplanted and does not need special care to become established.

Shovel or trowel
Well-rotted compost or manure
Epsom salt
Mulch
Pots (optional)
Plastic bags

Instructions

- 1
  Dig the dwarf ruellia plant to be transplanted with a shovel or trowel. Be careful not to break the fragile branches. Include as many roots as possible. It does not matter if the soil falls off of the roots.
- 2
  Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart. Dig a hole at the plant's new location large enough to accommodate the roots. Add an inch of well-rotted compost or manure into the bottom of the hole.
- 3
  Place the plant in the hole and replace the removed soil, tamping it down around the roots with your hands. Sprinkle a tablespoon of Epsom salt around the plant and water thoroughly.
- 4
  Apply mulch around the plants 2 to 3 inches thick. Water dwarf ruellia every other day for two weeks, then water once a week if there is not an inch of rain. Fertilize after four weeks and every three months thereafter with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.

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