Spiderwort (Tradescantia species) is a resilient perennial often valued for its long blooming period and ability to thrive in various conditions. Due to its vigorous growth habit, which results in large, dense clumps over time, transplantation is frequently necessary to rejuvenate the plant and manage its size in the garden. Successfully moving and dividing spiderwort involves careful timing and a specific preparation process to minimize transplant shock and encourage rapid establishment.
Optimal Timing for Relocation
The most effective time to transplant spiderwort is during the cooler periods of the growing season when the plant is not actively putting energy into flowering or setting seed. Early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge, provides an excellent window for relocation. Moving the plant at this time allows the root system to establish itself in the new soil before the onset of summer heat.
A secondary, equally suitable period for transplanting is the early fall, ideally six to eight weeks before the first anticipated hard frost. This timing gives the plant a chance to develop new feeder roots before entering winter dormancy. Transplanting during the summer months should be avoided because the high temperatures and increased water demand place excessive stress on the plant.
Preparing and Dividing the Plant
If transplanting in the fall, cut back the foliage to a height of about six to eight inches. This reduction in above-ground mass limits the amount of water lost through transpiration, allowing the plant to focus its energy on root recovery after being moved. Before digging, thoroughly water the spiderwort clump the day before to ensure the root ball is moist and the surrounding soil is easier to work with.
Using a sharp spade, cut a circle around the plant, about six inches away from the center, and carefully lever the entire root mass out of the ground. Spiderwort often requires division every three to five years to maintain vigor and prevent the center of the clump from dying out. The root ball can then be separated into smaller sections using a sharp knife or the edge of the spade.
Each resulting division must contain a healthy portion of roots and at least one viable crown or growth node from which new shoots will emerge. Divisions should be substantial enough to ensure survival, typically the size of a small grapefruit or larger. Discard any old, woody, or non-viable sections from the center of the original clump to ensure only healthy material is replanted.
Replanting and Establishing New Growth
The new planting site should be prepared by digging a hole that is roughly twice the width of the root ball but no deeper. Spiderwort thrives in humus-rich, well-draining soil, so amending the soil with compost or other organic matter is beneficial for long-term health. The plant division should be set into the hole so that the crown remains at the same level relative to the surrounding soil as it was previously.
Backfill the hole gently with the amended soil, firming it lightly around the roots to eliminate any air pockets. A thorough watering immediately after planting is necessary to settle the soil and fully hydrate the newly transplanted division.
Continued consistent moisture is the most important factor for successful establishment in the first few weeks. The soil must be kept evenly moist, but not saturated, as the plant develops new roots. If the new location receives intense, direct afternoon sun, temporary shading for the first week or two can reduce transplant shock. Monitoring for new growth indicates the Tradescantia division has successfully established itself.