How to Dig Up Hydrangeas

Prepare the new planting site before digging up your hydrangeas. This prevents the roots from drying out. Choose an area that has bright morning sunlight but filtered afternoon light, as hydrangeas wilt from the hot summer sun. Additionally, hydrangeas need well-drained soil, so avoid mucky areas of the yard.

Dig down deep enough to get under the rootball. Use a garden spade instead of a shovel, as it is easier to break through the soil. The plant will suffer less shock if transplanted with an intact rootball.

Place a heavy tarp on the ground beside the plant if you do not have a wheelbarrow.

Put the spade under the root ball, and lift it up while a second person pulls the hydrangea out of the ground. The woody roots trap a large amount of soil within the ball, making the plant very heavy.

Lay the plant on the tarp. Check the roots to see if they are root-bound. Separate the roots with your fingers, if necessary.

Drag the tarp to the new location.

Plant the hydrangea in the place you prepared. Water thoroughly one time. You may not need to water them again until the spring, especially if you have clay soil. Clay soil retains moisture longer than other types of dirt. If the soil dries out during the first few weeks, add more water. The plant is dormant, but the roots still need nutrition and moisture to establish the hydrangea in the surrounding soil.