The Monkey Puzzle tree (botanical name *Araucaria araucana*) is a true living fossil. Originally hailing from South America, this prehistoric beauty has become a total standout in modern gardens thanks to its exotic, architectural look. Just a heads-up, though: if you’re planning to add one to your yard, make sure you give it plenty of elbow room!
How well do Monkey Puzzle trees handle being moved?
To be honest, the Monkey Puzzle tree isn’t a big fan of moving day—and neither is the gardener! Those triangular, scale-like leaves are armed with sharp thorns that make handling the tree a bit of a prickly situation. Your best bet is to choose its “forever home” carefully right from the start so you don’t have to worry about relocating it later.
However, if you’re growing your Monkey Puzzle in a container, it’s a different story. You’ll need to repot it fairly regularly to keep it happy. How often depends on how fast your tree is growing and how much room it has left in its current pot.
When is the best time to transplant?
If your tree is planted in the ground, you should only try to move it if it’s absolutely necessary. Maybe it’s outgrown its spot, the location isn’t quite right, or you need that specific patch of dirt for a new project. Sometimes, if your Monkey Puzzle tree starts turning brown, a move to a better environment might be the only way to save it. If you have to do it, try to schedule the move during the warmer months.
For container-grown trees, it’s time to repot as soon as the roots start getting cramped. While a massive pot might seem like a way to save time on future repotting, keep in mind that more space and fresh nutrients usually mean the tree will hit a growth spurt!
What should I keep in mind while transplanting?
Safety first! Those leaves aren’t just for show—they are incredibly sharp. Working with this tree without protection is a recipe for some painful scratches. Always wear heavy-duty gardening gloves and a sturdy, long-sleeved jacket before you get to work.
Quick Summary:
- Avoid moving trees planted in the ground whenever possible.
- Repot container trees once they outgrow their current home.
- Give the tree a thorough watering immediately after transplanting or repotting.
- Hold off on the fertilizer for the first few weeks after a move.
- Always wear protective gear (gloves and a tough jacket) to avoid injury.
PRO TIP: Don’t underestimate those thorns! Working on a Monkey Puzzle tree without protection is a major injury risk.
