CSLB C-27 Landscaping ContractorPlanting and LandscapingHard
A client notices that their newly installed perennial border plants are wilting during the hottest part of the day, despite being watered regularly. Upon inspection, the soil appears moist, but the plants show signs of stress. What is the most likely cause of this wilting, and what immediate action should be taken?
- ATransplant shock; apply an anti-transpirant spray and provide temporary shade.
- BUnderwatering despite surface moisture; increase watering depth and frequency.
- CNutrient deficiency; apply a quick-release fertilizer.
- DOverwatering causing root rot; reduce watering frequency immediately.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Transplant shock; apply an anti-transpirant spray and provide temporary shade.
Wilting in new plantings, even with moist soil, is a classic symptom of transplant shock, where the root system is not yet established enough to absorb sufficient water to support the foliage, especially in heat. Providing temporary shade reduces transpiration stress, and anti-transpirants can help slow water loss from leaves.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The soil appears moist, suggesting it's not a simple lack of water in the soil, but rather the plant's inability to access it effectively.
- C. Nutrient deficiency usually manifests as chlorosis or stunted growth over a longer period, not sudden wilting, especially in newly planted specimens that typically have sufficient nutrients in their initial root ball and amended planting hole.
- D. While overwatering can cause wilting, the scenario describes new plants and moist soil, making transplant shock more probable if roots aren't well established. Reducing water might worsen stress if the issue is absorption, not excess.
Transplant Shock
A temporary stress response in plants after being moved, characterized by wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth due to root damage or difficulty adapting to a new environment.
- Caused by root disturbance.
- Reduced water uptake capacity.
- Mitigated by shade, proper watering, and root stimulants.
Memory trick: New plants can't 'drink' enough, so 'shade' them from the sun.