How to Transplant Desert Marigolds

Desert marigold is the common name for Baileya multiradiata, a species of biennial flowering plant native to low-lying desert regions of the southwestern U.S. It is sometimes cultivated as a drought-resistant landscaping plant for its attractive silvery-gray foliage and daisylike flowers, but many gardeners find at-home propagation difficult since the seeds lack viability. Transplanting existing desert marigolds takes little effort if it is done in spring when the soil is soft, but the plants must only be moved when young since older plants have an extensive and highly fragile root system.

Sharpshooter shovel

Instructions

- 1
  Find a young, vigorous desert marigold plant in spring before it blooms. Look for one no taller than 4 to 8 inches.
- 2
  Insert the blade of a sharpshooter shovel or other narrow-bladed shovel approximately 6 inches deep into the ground, six inches away from the base of the desert marigold plant. Work the blade of the shovel around the plant in a 6-inch radius.
- 3
  Carefully slide the tip of the shovel underneath the roots of the desert marigold. Pry it gently from the hole. Set it in a shady spot and fill in the hole.
- 4
  Transport the plant by misting the roots with water then wrapping them in a large plastic bag or moistened towel, if gathering the plant away from your property or planting site.
- 5
  Dig a planting hole for the desert marigold measuring at least 10 inches wide and 10 inches deep using your shovel. Spread a 3- to 4-inch-deep layer of loosened soil across the bottom of the hole.
- 6
  Settle the root ball of the desert marigold in the hole. Backfill around the roots with garden soil until the plant sits snugly in the ground.
- 7
  Water the desert marigold to a depth of 1 inch every five to seven days. Avoid overwatering the plant since that can cause rot.

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