I found two huge colonies of Bloodroot next to a narrow country road scheduled for widening. I want to rescue some of them before the bulldozer has its way with them. I have a perfect new home for them and I want to maximize their chances of survival.I would appreciate any information about the best way to dig them. Are they as difficult as Lady Slippers?
Transplanting Bloodroot
Like most wild plants they prefer to be moved when they are about to end the season or go dormant. But sounds like you have to act fast. I have successfully moved them. You have to get lots of dirt around them. They have a rhizome that contains toxic alkaloid, sanguinarine. Wear gloves if you touch the roots as it can stain your hands red. Good Luck. Go out and rescue those plants. They are one of my favorites.