Wisteria is a beautiful vine that is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9. It is one of my favorite vine plants. Depending on the variety you choose, some wisterias have scented purple flowers. Wisteria is a deciduous vine, meaning that the leaves drop off in the fall. There are two species of wisteria vines: The Chinese wisteria and Japanese wisteria. Often times, wisteria will send out suckers. If you want another wisteria to grow in a different part of your yard, don’t go to a garden supply store or order one online. You can dig the shoots or suckers out of the ground. Simply replant them in an area of your choosing.
The best chances for a successful time to replant your wisteria vine is late in the winter or early in the spring before the buds break open. Of course, if you are adventurous, you can try to transplant them during the other months.
Prepare the Planting Hole
Prepare the planting location for your wisteria. This helps cut down on the stress of the plant. Less stress means the wisteria vine will take off and grow. The planting area should have at least 6 hours of sunlight every day.
Dig the hole or holes, depending on how many you’ll want to dig up and plant. Each hole should measure 2 to 3 feet across and be 2 feet deep. When the hole is dug, take the edge of your shovel or spade to scuff up the sides and bottom of the hole.
Fill the hole with water. Wait until the water drains out before you transplant the vine.
Amend the soil removed from the hole with 3 to 4 inches of compost. Use well-rotted compost because it helps with drainage and provides nutrients to the soil for your wisteria vine to grow.
Dig Out The Wisteria Shoot
Now it is time to dig out the wisteria shoot. Choose a healthy shoot that is 1 to 2 feet in height. Try to place the edge of your space or shovel a foot away from the rootball and then push the spade into the soil going all the way around the plant.
Carefully pry the root ball out of the ground, being try not to break the root ball.
Transplant the Wisteria
If you have to go a distance to go to your planting hole, wrap the rootball in a tarp to keep the soil intact.
Adjust the depth of your planting hole to match the height of the root ball. Insert the root ball into your planting hole. Check to make sure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil. Wisteria must be planted to the same depth as it was originally growing.
Fill in the hole around the root ball with the amended soil. Tamp the soil in place with your hands to eliminate any air pockets.
Give the wisteria vine a good drink of water. Keep the soil moist and soon your wisteria vine will take off and grow.
Source:
“Wisterias: A Comprehensive Guide”; Peter Valder; 1995
