Transplanting Hydrangeas: When, Where, and How to Move Them

Photo by: Photojuli86 / Shutterstock

Hydrangeas are long-lived shrubs that often thrive in the same spot for years, but sometimes they need a change. They may outgrow their space, struggle in too much shade, or simply need to be moved as your garden design evolves. The good news is that transplanting hydrangeas is very doable, even with mature plants, as long as you choose the right time and take a few simple steps.

Whether you’re shifting a young shrub to a sunnier spot or deciding it’s time to replant hydrangeas that have outgrown their space, the process doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right timing, preparation, and aftercare, your plant can adjust to its new home and continue providing beautiful blooms for years to come.

On this page:

THE BEST TIME TO TRANSPLANT
CHOOSING THE RIGHT NEW SPOT
HOW TO TRANSPLANT HYDRANGEAS
AFTERCARE: HELPING HYDRANGEAS RECOVER
COMMON MISTAKES WHEN MOVING HYDRANGEAS
SPECIAL SITUATIONS & FAQs

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRANSPLANT HYDRANGEAS?

The best time of year to transplant hydrangeas is when they’re dormant or semi-dormant, which usually means fall or early spring. During these cooler months, plants aren’t putting energy into flowering, so they can focus on establishing roots in their new location.

Fall: A great time to transplant because the soil is still warm, which encourages root growth before winter. Aim for at least 4 to 6 weeks before the ground freezes.
Early spring: Also a good option, especially in colder climates. Move plants just as the soil can be worked but before new leaves or flower buds fully emerge.
AVOID summer: Hot, dry weather puts extra stress on hydrangeas, making it harder for them to recover after being moved. Only transplant in summer if absolutely necessary, and provide extra water and shade until the plant settles in.

As a general rule, transplant hydrangeas when they’re not actively blooming and conditions are mild. This timing gives your shrub the best chance to reestablish roots and start strong in its new home.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT NEW LOCATION

Hydrangeas can adapt to different conditions, but picking the right spot will make transplanting more successful. Consider these key factors:

Light needs: Most hydrangeas prefer morning sun and afternoon shade, although some panicle types can tolerate more full sun. Too much hot afternoon sun can scorch leaves, while too much shade may reduce flowering.
Soil quality: They grow best in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Heavy clay or sandy soil can be improved with compost before planting.
Flower color and soil pH: For bigleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla), soil chemistry affects bloom color. Acidic soil produces blue flowers, while alkaline soil leans pink. If flower color is important, test your soil and amend as needed.
Space and airflow: Give the plant room to spread and make sure air can circulate around it to help prevent diseases such as powdery mildew.

Photo by: Shutter_tonko / Shutterstock

HOW TO TRANSPLANT A HYDRANGEA: STEP-BY-STEP

Moving a hydrangea successfully comes down to good preparation and careful handling. Follow these steps to give your plant the best start in its new home.

1. Prepare the new planting hole

Dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower than its depth.
Loosen the soil at the bottom and sides so roots can spread easily.
Mix in compost or organic matter, but skip fertilizer until the plant is reestablished.

2. Water and prune hydrangeas before digging them up

Water your hydrangea thoroughly a day before moving it. Moist soil is easier to dig, and hydrated roots handle stress better.
Lightly prune to reduce size if needed, but avoid heavy pruning right before transplanting since the plant needs its leaves to produce energy.

3. Dig up the hydrangea carefully

Start digging just outside the drip line of the shrub to capture as much of the root system as possible.
Work your way around in a circle, then angle your shovel underneath to lift the root ball.
For large, mature shrubs, you may need a helper—or even to wrap the root ball in burlap to keep it intact.

4. Replant in the new hole

Set the hydrangea in the hole so it sits at the same depth it was growing before. Planting too deep can stress the shrub.
Fill in with soil, gently firming it down to remove air pockets.
Water deeply to settle the soil around the roots. Consistent water and temporary shade are the best ways to reduce transplant shock.
Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture.

AFTERCARE: HELPING HYDRANGEAS RECOVER

Once your hydrangea is in the ground, a little extra attention will help it adjust, thrive, and bounce back quickly.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the first growing season. Deep watering once or twice a week is better than frequent shallow watering, especially in dry spells.
Mulch: A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch helps regulate soil temperature, conserve moisture, and protect roots. Keep mulch a few inches away from the base of the plant to prevent rot.
Shade protection: If your hydrangea shows signs of stress after transplanting—such as drooping leaves—provide temporary shade with a garden umbrella or cloth until it recovers.
Patience with blooms: It’s normal for transplanted hydrangeas to take a season before flowering well again. Most regain their strength the following year once roots are fully reestablished.

COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN MOVING HYDRANGEAS

Even with the best intentions, a few common missteps can make transplanting harder on your plant. Keep these points in mind to help reduce transplant shock:

Transplanting in midsummer heat: Hot weather adds stress and increases the chance of wilting. Stick to fall or early spring whenever possible.
Planting too deep or too shallow: Hydrangeas should sit at the same depth as they were in their original spot. Planting too deep can smother roots, while too shallow can dry them out.
Overfertilizing right away: Freshly moved hydrangeas need time to settle before being pushed into growth. Hold off on fertilizer until the following season.
Ignoring soil drainage: Poorly draining soil leads to root rot. Always amend or choose a location with good drainage before transplanting.
Crowding: Giving your plant enough space prevents competition for water and nutrients and helps reduce the risk of powdery mildew.Transplanting in midsummer heat: Hot weather adds stress and increases the chance of wilting. Stick to fall or early spring whenever possible.

SPECIAL SITUATIONS & FAQs

Transplanting hydrangeas isn’t always straightforward. Here are answers to some of the most common questions.

Can you transplant hydrangeas in summer?

It’s not ideal, but it can be done if necessary. Move the plant on a cool, cloudy day, water deeply before and after, and provide temporary shade until it shows signs of recovery.

What about large, mature hydrangeas?

Bigger shrubs have larger root systems, which makes them harder to dig and move. Enlist help, dig a wide root ball, and consider wrapping it in burlap for stability. Mature plants may take longer to reestablish but can still survive the move.

Is it easier to transplant young hydrangeas?

Yes. Smaller, younger plants are lighter, easier to handle, and recover more quickly. If possible, transplant within the first few years after planting.

Will my hydrangea bloom the same year after moving?

Not always. Many hydrangeas take a year to recover before producing their usual number of flowers. Focus on keeping the plant healthy, and blooms will return once the root system is strong.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Linda Hagen is a writer and content coordinator at GardenDesign.com, where she combines firsthand gardening experience with expert insights. Based in Southern California (Zone 9B), she’s passionate about vibrant, pollinator-friendly gardens and believes the best lessons come from a trial-and-error approach to growing .