Fall is the best time to move plants

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Question: I would like to move a crape myrtle that has been in the garden for almost three years. My gardener says that I must wait until spring. If I do, I'm afraid it won't bloom. I would also like to move a yellow bird of paradise. They are getting too large and I don't like their appearance where they are. Can I move both plants now with any success?

Actually, the fall is the best time to move plants. As plants get more and more established, they become more and more difficult to move successfully. At three years in the ground, if you're going to move this plant, you should do it now.

Pre-dig the hole where it's going to be located. Make sure the soil coming out of the hole is amended with good compost, at least 25 percent by volume.

Bob Morris is an associate professor with the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension.