Transplant Shock

Transplanting plants is not a simple process, as one needs to take many factors into consideration. One such factor is transplant shock, a prominent issue in transplantation of plants. 

When plants are removed from their original environment and are relocated to a new one, transplant shock can occur – a scenario in which a plant faces stress and temporary problems from transplanting. While it may not seem like a serious issue, it inflicts significant damage to the plant’s overall health, and can even hinder its growth. 

Reasons behind transplant shock

There are many reasons why transplant shock happens, but one of the main reasons is due to root damage. In a typical gardening scenario, uprooting a plant can tear off some parts of its roots. Not only does this harm the roots, but this also harms the plant itself, as the main function of the root is to absorb water and mineral salts from the soil. With less roots, it can slow down its function and lower the rate of absorption of water and nutrients, ultimately affecting the plant’s photosynthesis and respiration processes, which are important for its survival. Another function of a plant’s roots is to anchor the plant. With the plant’s roots reduced, the plant may not be anchored as strongly to the ground, causing it to be more susceptible to strong winds and rains. However, in a larger setting (one such example is agriculture), the cutting of roots is more likely to occur due to the sharp nature of the transplanting tools. As most transplanting tools used today are made of sharp and rigid materials, there is a higher chance of the plant’s roots getting pierced and sliced. 

Another reason for transplant shock is the plant not being able to adapt quickly enough to its new environment. There will be changes to soil composition, moisture content, temperature and amount of sunlight received. As these factors are important for a plant’s growth, having them changed can adversely affect the plant’s overall state. If the plant does not adapt quickly enough, it may even die. Therefore, it is crucial to take proper care of your plant after transplantation. 

One last reason for transplant shock is due to soil compaction. This occurs when soil particles are compressed, reducing the amount of pores between them. Soil compaction can occur when one applies too much pressure onto the soil. An adverse impact of this is the reduced infiltration of water as well as air circulation into the soil, which can cause the plant’s to experience a lack of sufficient water and oxygen – ultimately leading to its declining health or death. 

Signs of transplant shock 

Because of this, plants will show symptoms as a result of their problems. Some of these symptoms include:

1. Wilting 

Not only can the leaves wilt, but the stem or the plant itself can wilt as well. This might be due to a lack of nutrients and water in the plant. 

2. Leaves turning yellow or brown

Having the tips of leaves turn yellow or brown can also be due to a lack of nutrients and water.

3. Falling of leaves 

This is one of the plant's reactions in order to maintain its energy and resources. 

4. Slowed growth of plants 

Due to less nutrient and water uptake, the plant may have slower development of leaves and shoots, or even flowers and fruits.

As a whole, the plant will experience a deterioration in its health. It is then important for us to properly take care of the plant in order to reduce its stress, as well as alleviate its transplant shock. 

How to alleviate transplant shock 

One way to reduce the impact of transplant shock is to use transplant fertilisers. These fertilisers contain a mix of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (N-P-K), as well as other necessary nutrients that can help with plant growth. All in all, the main point of the transplant fertiliser is to facilitate the growth of roots, for the recovery of the plant. This can quicken its adaptation to its new setting. 

Moreover, one can add triple-mix soil to better alleviate the impacts of transplant shock as well. Triple-mix soil is primarily made of manure, peat moss and loam, which helps with giving the plant minerals and nutrients. These ingredients can also supplement the soil with organic matter and boost its moisture retention and soil structure. 

To end it off, these methods can enhance the plant’s health and adjustment to its new environment. 

References:

Gauthier , N. W., Kaiser, C., & Klahr , M. (2014, May). Transplant shock: Disease or cultural problem? https://plantpathology.ca.uky.edu/files/ppfs-or-w-19.pdf 

What is transplant shock?. Canadale. (2024, April 16). https://canadale.ca/what-is-transplant-shock/ 

Nicole Lim

Secondary 4 Loyalty

2025