Transplant a Coreopsis in 8 Steps

The coreopsis is a beautiful perennial native to North America that makes a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape. Like any other type of perennial, the coreopsis needs to occasionally be divided and transplanted in order to promote better growth of leaves and flowers. Transplanting the coreopsis will keep your garden or landscape from being cluttered or crowded with a single type of perennial flower. Here is a guide to help you transplant your coreopsis plants.

Step 1- Remove the Coreopsis Plant

First, carefully remove your coreopsis plant from the ground and make sure not to damage the root system. You can use a small garden spade or even a large fork to help you accomplish this.

Step 2 - Inspect the Root System

Before dividing your coreopsis plant roots, carefully inspect the entire root system to include the main root ball as well as any branch routes. Make sure that they are healthy and are not dry or otherwise damaged.

Step 3 - Divide the Roots

Next, carefully divide the roots into sets of 3 to 5 shoots each. You can do this with a pair of scissors, a small knife or even a small garden spade. Just be sure to gently cut the roots and n try to carefully divide the roots in a way that each new plant has enough roots to adequately grow.

Step 4 - Choose a Location

Just as with your original coreopsis plant, you'll need to choose a location that receives direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours every day.

Step 5 - Prepare the Soil

Before planting your new coreopsis transplants, turn the soil and add some high-quality mulch and a good all-purpose fertilizer. You should also consider adding some super phosphate, bone meal or animal manure as well. These types of items all contain high levels of phosphate needed by your coreopsis plant to establish new root systems.

Step 6 - Plant Your Transplants

Next, dig holes that are the same depth as the original coreopsis plants were planted in and insert your new transplants. Carefully insert the root system into the hole, and firmly but gently pack soil around the shoot base.

Step 7 - First Watering

After you have planted your coreopsis transplants into the ground, you'll need to water them thoroughly. While the first watering will need to be somewhat heavy, be sure not to soak the ground too much. You should add water to the ground until it starts to appear at the soil level.

Step 8 - Second Fertilization

Approximately 2 weeks after you plant the coreopsis transplants, add another application of high-quality fertilizer as this will be needed to help the root system fight the cold of the first winter frost.