Absolutely! Transplanting common yarrow, also known as Achillea millefolium, is a fairly straightforward process. As an experienced gardener and landscaper, I have successfully transplanted yarrow numerous times with great success.
To begin, you’ll want to choose a time to transplant when the yarrow is not in bloom. Early spring or fall is generally the best time, as the plant is not actively growing during these periods. This will help minimize stress on the plant and increase its chances of survival.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to transplant yarrow:
1. Prepare the new planting site: Select a location that receives full sun and has well-draining soil. Yarrow is quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of soil types, but it prefers soil that is not overly wet or compacted. Clear the area of any weeds or competing plants.
2. Dig up the yarrow: Using a spade or a small garden knife, carefully dig around the base of the yarrow plant, keeping a good distance from the center to avoid damaging the roots. Yarrow has shallow roots, so this process should be relatively easy. Be gentle while digging to minimize root disturbance.
3. Divide the plant (optional): If the yarrow has become overgrown or you want to propagate more plants, this is a great opportunity to divide it. Once you have dug up the plant, you can use your hands or a sharp garden knife to separate the root clump into smaller sections. Each section should have a sufficient amount of roots and foliage to support growth.
4. Prepare the new planting hole: Dig a hole in the new planting site that is slightly larger than the root ball of the yarrow. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to encourage root growth. If the soil is heavy or clayey, you can amend it with organic matter like compost to improve drainage.
5. Plant the yarrow: Place the yarrow plant or divided sections into the prepared hole, making sure the crown of the plant (where the roots meet the foliage) is level with or slightly above the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Water the newly transplanted yarrow thoroughly to help settle the soil.
6. Provide proper care: After transplanting, it’s important to provide the yarrow with adequate care to help it establish in its new location. Water the plant regularly, especially during the first few weeks, to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once the plant is established, yarrow is relatively drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
7. Mulch and weed control: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the yarrow plant to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a more even soil temperature. Avoid piling the mulch directly against the stems to prevent rot.
8. Monitor and maintain: Keep an eye on the transplanted yarrow for any signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves. If necessary, provide additional water or shade during hot, dry periods. Regularly remove any weeds or unwanted vegetation that may compete with the yarrow for nutrients and space.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully transplant common yarrow and enjoy its beautiful blooms in its new location. Remember, yarrow is a hardy perennial and is generally quite forgiving, so don’t be afraid to give it a try!
