Ailing elderly Pieris - very pale indeed

We transplanted a 15-foot Pieris over the fence to save it from destruction last summer. It didn't seem to go through transplant shock, but is now ailing after a paltry bloom and no red coloration this spring or summer.

Wondering if this is due to the big shift in light levels due to the construction of a monster house that cuts off western sun. The Enkianthus next to it is happily green, but also not showing much bloom and isn't gaining any height. It's about 5 feet tall, so should be getting much larger.

Any thoughts on what can be done, given moving the new house next door is not an option?

 

You won't see much growth because the roots are trying to become established in its new spot....be patient, keep it watered well and do not add any fertilizer (except maybe root booster if you want) to the plant....probably see more growth next season.....

 

Hi Ian, thanks for the reply. I'm more concerned about the big change in coloration and lack of bloom. The Pieris has gotten markedly more bleached out looking by the day, and seems droopy. Odd, because it's getting watered. Might it be overwatering, as well, given that it sat neglected on the other side of the fence for a good decade?

Willing to be patient, I seem to be in the business of shrub rescue...

Boondoggle

 

Dig around and check the original soil ball for moisture issues. Do not apply transplant fertilizer. Is the shrub mulched?

 

Things will be damp now after our Vancouver Rain, Ron B, nice to hear from you! Haven't mulched, do you suggest some leaf mould or another substance?

 

Did it rain enough to really soak the soil and root-ball? If not...

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Wood chips are good.