Transplant shock
Wilting, leaf drop and stalled growth after a plant is moved or repotted, while the roots recover and re-establish.
Also known as: Repotting shock, Transplanting stress
Symptoms and identification
Plants wilt soon after transplanting, especially in the afternoon, leaves yellow or drop, and new growth stops for one or more weeks. Seedlings may look pale and limp.
Causes
Root damage during moving, a sudden change in light or temperature, transplanting in the heat of the day, and loose soil around the roots.
Organic treatment
Water thoroughly, keep the soil evenly moist, and provide shade for a few days. Do not fertilize until new growth appears. A seaweed solution can help roots recover.
Prevention
Transplant in the evening or on cloudy days, water plants well an hour before moving them, keep the root ball intact, and harden off seedlings first.
Chemical treatment (use with care)
Not needed.