How to Transplant Sedum Autumn Joy
Part of the stonecrop family, sedum enjoys many characteristics of succulents such as the ability to grow in shallow, rocky soil and drought tolerance. Autumn Joy, a popular sedum species, is prized for these qualities in addition to its long-lasting crowns of blooms. The buds change from silver to pink and then to a cheerful red when fully opened by late summer. Transplanting these favorites is very simple, and requires little preparation to ensure success.
Transplant Autumn Joy in early spring before new growth begins. Perennials are best moved when they are not in bloom, to encourage energy to flow to root production rather than flowering. Choose a location in full sun with good drainage.
- Part of the stonecrop family, sedum enjoys many characteristics of succulents such as the ability to grow in shallow, rocky soil and drought tolerance.
- Perennials are best moved when they are not in bloom, to encourage energy to flow to root production rather than flowering.
Prepare the new bed by adding up to 4 inches of organic matter, such as composted pine bark, over the top of the planting area. Cultivate the matter into the soil to a depth of 12 inches to improve drainage and provide nutrients.
Dig a hole in the new planting area that will allow the plant to sit at the same level it was previously. Do not dig too deeply, but just enough to ensure the base of the plant where the roots begin will be fully covered.
Carefully dig around the Autumn Joy sedum several inches away from the base. Lift the plant out of the soil with a garden fork. Gently place the plant into the new hole and backfill with soil.
- Prepare the new bed by adding up to 4 inches of organic matter, such as composted pine bark, over the top of the planting area.
Water thoroughly, without making the ground soggy, and maintain soil moisture over the next few weeks as the Autumn Joy adjusts to its new setting. Apply a 2-inch layer of organic mulch, such as dry grass clippings, up to the edge of the plant. Avoid touching the crown where the base stems appear as mulch contact in this area may promote disease. Add up to 4 inches of additional mulch after the first frost to protect the sedum over winter.
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Writer Bio
Desirae Roy began writing in 2009. After earning certification as an interpreter for the deaf, Roy earned a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education from Eastern Washington University. Part of her general studies included a botany course leading to a passion for the natural world.
