Transplant shock is avoided by using which method?

• A. Increase water
• B. Fertilize
• C. Antitranspirants
• D. Use mulch

Answer: (C)

Transplant shock happens because, after moving to a new site, a plant often loses more water through its leaves than the roots can replace, leading to dehydration as the roots recover. Antitranspirants reduce water loss from the leaves by forming a protective film or by limiting stomatal opening, which lowers transpiration. With less water loss, the plant stays hydrated longer, giving roots time to reestablish and begin supplying water again, which helps the plant endure the transplant process. Mulch and careful watering help moisture around the root zone, but they don’t directly curb leaf transpiration the way antitranspirants do, and fertilizing doesn’t address the immediate water balance involved in transplant shock.