Morning glories, members of the genus Ipomoea, are known for their fast-growing, twining vines and vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers. While transplanting these annual climbers is possible, the process demands extreme care and precision due to the plant’s unique root structure. Moving a morning glory is generally a high-risk endeavor, especially once the vine is fully established in the garden.
Why Morning Glories are Difficult to Move
The botanical reason for the transplant difficulty lies in the morning glory’s specialized root system. Most varieties develop a deep, centralized taproot early in their growth cycle. This single, primary root extends quickly into the soil, providing the vine with rapid access to water and nutrients.
The taproot is highly sensitive to disturbance and is surprisingly brittle. Damage or breakage causes severe transplant shock, which often results in the immediate decline and death of the plant. Unlike plants with fibrous roots, the morning glory cannot easily recover from the loss of its central anchor.
The Best Way to Transplant Young Seedlings
The highest chance of transplanting success comes from handling seedlings that are only a few weeks old, ideally possessing only their first set of true leaves. Since root disturbance is the primary threat, the recommended method involves starting the seeds in a container that can be planted directly into the ground. Biodegradable pots, such as peat or coir containers, are suited for this purpose, as are deep seed-starting trays.
The taproot grows through the walls, but the soil remains undisturbed when moved. When transplanting, dig a hole slightly wider and exactly as deep as the container. Place the pot directly into the hole and backfill with soil. Ensure the top edge of the biodegradable pot is fully covered to prevent it from wicking moisture away from the roots. This technique ensures the fragile taproot is never exposed or handled, maximizing survival.
Moving Established Vines
Moving an established morning glory vine already rooted in the garden is a high-risk operation with a low success rate. The only way to attempt this is by digging a root ball massive enough to encompass the entire, undisturbed taproot. Plan to dig a circle at least 12 inches wide around the base of the vine.
The excavation must be deep, ideally extending 12 to 18 inches down, to capture the full length of the primary root. Before lifting the root ball, severely prune the top growth, cutting back the vines by at least half. This reduction in foliage lessens the amount of water the compromised root system must supply, minimizing water stress and shock.
Immediate Aftercare
Regardless of whether you moved a delicate seedling or a mature vine, the first few days following the transplant are a period of high vulnerability. Immediately after settling the plant into its new location, provide a deep, generous watering to help the surrounding soil settle and eliminate air pockets around the roots. This initial watering can be mixed with a mild solution of seaweed extract or a rooting hormone to stimulate new root growth and mitigate shock.
For the first three to five days, place the morning glory in a location that receives bright morning sun but is shielded from the harsh, direct afternoon sun. This temporary partial shade reduces the rate of water loss while the roots establish themselves. Maintain consistent soil moisture during this recovery period, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.