Even under ideal conditions, many plants drop some of their buds, flowers, and leaves when they are transplanted. Bud and leaf drop result from root damage that occurs during transplanting. Tiny hairlike rootlets that grow at the periphery of the root system absorb most of the water the plant uses. When these rootlets are damaged during transplanting, the amount of water that can be supplied to the foliage and flowers is decreased. Flower buds, flowers, and leaves fall off, and the plant wilts. The more the roots are damaged during transplanting, the greater will be the leaf and bud drop. Also, because plants lose water rapidly during hot, dry, windy periods, transplanting at these times will cause plants to undergo greater shock. They will not recover as quickly. As the root system regrows, new flower buds will form.
Transplant when the weather is cool, in the early morning, in the late afternoon, and on cloudy days. Whenever possible, transplant small plants rather than large ones. When transplanting, disturb the soil around the roots as little as possible. Preserve as much of the root system as possible. If the roots have been disturbed or if the plant is large or old, pinch off about a third of the growth to reduce the amount of foliage needing water. For more information about transplanting, see Planting and Transplanting.
