Aucuba transplant: when and how best to do it
Aucuba transplant is an essential procedure for growing a plant at home. In nature, it reaches a decent size - up to 4 m in height. Indoor aucuba (usually Japanese) is more compact. But it is also actively growing and, over time, requires space for development. How to transplant an aucuba correctly and how often should it be done?
When to transplant
Like all houseplants, it is best to replant aucuba in early spring. Young bushes need an annual pot change and soil renewal. Large adult specimens should be replanted every three years.
The transplant is carried out when the roots completely fill the space and braid the ground.
Choosing a flowerpot and soil
Aucuba grows best in wide flowerpots. The pot must have holes on the bottom. Excess water will go through them when watering.
The plant loves water very much, so the appropriate soil must be chosen. The best option is to compose it yourself by mixing:
- clay-sod land - 6 shares;
- peat land - 2 shares;
- leafy ground - 2 shares;
- sand - 1 share.
Aucuba is one of those crops that do well in hydroponics.
Aucuba transplant: how to do it right
It is better to transplant an adult aucuba by transshipment, or rather, partial transshipment. The root system of the flower is fragile and if the soil is completely removed, it can be damaged. The bush must be carefully removed from the flowerpot along with an earthen lump. Remove the top layer of soil. Too thick roots can be partially trimmed from below.
If the aucuba grows in ceramic pots, transplant problems may arise. The roots sticking out of the drainage holes make it difficult to carefully remove the bush from the dishes. It's a pity to break the pot, and besides, you can get hurt. In this case, you will have to sacrifice the plant and cut off everything that has come out. Then use a knife to walk along the edge of the pot, as if cutting off the soil with intertwined roots. Turn the container over and take out the plant, holding it by the trunk.
The transplant process itself is simple and consists in the following:
- Place a good drainage layer on the bottom of the pot. Expanded clay is suitable - it will not let the roots rot and will prevent direct contact with water.
- Pour fresh nutrient soil on top of the drainage.
- Place the aucuba in the center of the container.
- Fill the voids on the sides with earth, lightly tamping it.
- Sprinkle soil on top, too, not reaching 2-3 cm to the edge. Otherwise, water will spill out during watering.
Water the transplanted aucuba well and do not expose to the sun for the first time. For a week, the bush should be placed in partial shade.