Transplant Shock

Q. I recently had quite a few evergreens transplanted to a new home. I have been watering them since they were transplanted two weeks ago, but there are quite a bit of yellow leaves dropping. My landscaper said they are in a state of shock and that fertilizers would burn them up and to just be patient. I am concerned that they need something more.

--D.Y., Atlanta, GA

A. Your landscaper gave you good advice. The majority of plants will suffer from transplant shock, which often shows up as leaves that yellow and fall off. Fertilizer forces a plant to grow, which isn't a good idea when it's under stress. Allow the plant's root system to establish itself. In addition, don't overwater. Overwatering can also show up as yellowing leaves. Keep the soil moist--but not wet--surrounding and slightly beyond the entire root zone. Plant roots need oxygen as well, and if spaces between soil particles are completely filled with water, there's no room for oxygen. Plants do try to teach us patience! Good luck.

--National Gardening Association