From our perspective, the absolute best time to be moved is during our natural period of deep dormancy, either in late fall or very early spring. During dormancy, our above-ground growth has completely died back, and our energy is fully concentrated and stored safely within our thick, fleshy roots (called rhizomes). This dormant state is akin to a deep sleep. Being transplanted at this time means the process interrupts very little active biological activity. We are not expending energy on producing leaves, flowers, or new roots. Therefore, the physical disturbance of being dug up and relocated is met with minimal shock, as our systems are already in a suspended, protected state.
Transplanting during our active growth phases is highly stressful and should be avoided. In early to mid-spring, we are channeling all our stored energy into producing our characteristic fern-like foliage and delicate, heart-shaped flowers. This is a period of high metabolic demand. Disturbing our roots at this time severs the vital connections between our root system and the new, tender growth above ground, causing severe wilting, flower loss, and a significant setback for the entire season. Similarly, transplanting in summer subjects us to heat stress, increasing water loss through our large leaf surfaces at a time when our damaged roots cannot uptake moisture efficiently.
The specific weather conditions on the day of the move are just as important as the season. We prefer an overcast, cool, and drizzly day. Direct, hot sun immediately after transplanting places immense water stress on us before our roots have had any chance to re-establish themselves in the new soil. Cool, cloudy conditions minimize transpiration (water loss through leaves) and give us a gentle environment in which to recover. Furthermore, the soil itself should be moist but not waterlogged. Working in wet, compacted soil can damage our brittle roots and destroy the soil structure we need to thrive.
To further prevent shock, the physical act of moving us must be done with care. The goal is to preserve as much of the root system as possible with minimal disturbance. A wide berth should be taken when digging us up to avoid slicing through our radiating roots. It is best to lift our entire root ball intact and keep it moist throughout the process. If division is desired, the rhizomes can be gently teased apart or cleanly cut with a sharp knife. Quickly replanting us at the same soil depth we were previously growing at is crucial; planting too deep or too shallow disrupts our established growth pattern and access to oxygen.
Even with perfect timing, we will need attentive aftercare. Our new planting site should have rich, well-draining soil and dappled shade—conditions we naturally prefer. We must be watered deeply and consistently immediately after being moved to settle the soil around our roots and eliminate air pockets. The soil should be kept consistently moist (but not soggy) for the next several weeks as we begin the delicate process of regenerating root hairs and acclimating to our new home. A layer of organic mulch around our base will help retain that crucial moisture and regulate soil temperature.
