The Best Times to Transplant a Red-Tipped Photinia

Stem and Root Pruning

• Red-tipped photinias grow 2 to 3 feet per year to a mature height and width of 10 to 15 feet. The stems can be pruned back by as much as one-half to make transplanting easier. Due to the fact that they are evergreen shrubs, they need to be moved with the soil on their roots. They should be root pruned five to six months prior to moving them. This will force the growth of new roots within the root-pruning circle and form a healthier more compact root mass or rootball. Root pruning is done by digging a trench around the shrub to sever the roots and then filling it back in. The rootball will form within the trenched area. For a 1 1/2-foot-wide shrub, the rootball should be 1 foot wide and 9 inches deep. Add approximately 2 inches to each measurement for each additional foot in shrub width.

Season to Transplant

• Red-tipped photinias are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 to 9. In mild-winter USDA zone 9, red-tipped photinias should be transplanted in mid-winter. In USDA zones 7 and 8, they should be moved in fall or early winter. Transplanting red-tipped photinias during these seasons gives them an opportunity to grow their roots into the surrounding soil and become somewhat established before the heat of the summer. They can be transplanted in the spring, if necessary, but it should be done as early as possible.

Water Requirements

• Transplanting red-tipped photinias at the beginning of a rainy season will help save time and money. Reestablishment after being moved requires regular water; newly transplanted shrubs must have consistently moist soil for three months. After that, they should receive at least 2 to 3 gallons of water each week for the first two years.

Soil and Spacing

• Red-tipped photinias are not particular about soil type but the soil must drain quickly. Check the draining capabilities at the new planting site. This can be done by removing the top and bottom of a 46-ounce coffee can, digging a 4-inch deep hole, pressing the coffee can into the hole and filling it with water. If the water level drops 2 inches or more in one hour, the draining capabilities are fine. If not, improve the drainage by adding organic matter, consider a different planting site or create a 1-foot high raised bed. Plant multiple red-tipped photinias 2 to 3 feet apart for a hedge. When planted in a border or as a specimen, they should be spaced at least 4 feet away from other shrubs and structures to allow for good air circulation.