By following these tips and guidelines, you can increase the likelihood of success when transplanting lemon myrtle. With proper care and attention, your lemon myrtle will reward you with its delightful fragrance and lush foliage, enhancing your garden for years to come.

Lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is a captivating Australian native plant renowned for its aromatic leaves and versatile uses in culinary and medicinal applications. Its vibrant lemon scent, reminiscent of citronella and lemongrass, makes it a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike. If you're considering transplanting lemon myrtle either to a new spot in your garden or into a container, it's essential to understand the process to ensure the plant's health and vigor. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you successfully transplant your lemon myrtle:

1. Timing is Key:
Timing plays a crucial role in the success of transplanting lemon myrtle. It's best to undertake the transplanting process during the plant's dormant period, which typically occurs in late winter to early spring or early autumn in temperate climates. Avoid transplanting during periods of extreme heat or cold, as this can stress the plant and reduce its chances of survival.

2. Choose the Right Location:
Before transplanting, carefully select a suitable location for your lemon myrtle. It thrives in well-drained soil with good air circulation and prefers a sunny to partially shaded spot. Ensure that the new location provides adequate space for the plant to grow to its full size, as lemon myrtle can reach heights of up to 20 feet (6 meters) in optimal conditions.

3. Prepare the Soil:
Prepare the soil in the new planting location by loosening it to a depth of at least 12 inches (30 cm) and incorporating organic matter such as compost or aged manure. This will improve soil structure, fertility, and drainage, providing an ideal environment for the lemon myrtle to establish itself.

4. Watering and Transplanting:
Before transplanting, thoroughly water the lemon myrtle to ensure that the root ball is well-hydrated. Carefully dig around the plant's root ball, taking care not to damage the roots. When lifting the plant, try to preserve as much of the root system as possible.

5. Transplanting Process:
Dig a hole in the new planting location that is slightly larger than the root ball of the lemon myrtle. Place the plant in the hole at the same depth as it was previously growing and backfill with soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant. Water the newly transplanted lemon myrtle thoroughly to help settle the soil and eliminate any air pockets around the roots.

6. Post-Transplant Care:
After transplanting, monitor the lemon myrtle closely for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves. Provide regular watering, especially during dry periods, to help the plant establish itself in its new location. Consider applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

7. Pruning and Maintenance:
To encourage healthy growth and shape the lemon myrtle to your desired form, consider pruning it lightly after transplanting. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and trim back the foliage to promote bushiness. However, avoid excessive pruning, especially during the first year after transplanting, as this can stress the plant.

8. Patience and Monitoring:
Transplanting can be a stressful experience for plants, and it may take some time for the lemon myrtle to adjust to its new surroundings. Be patient and continue to provide care and attention as needed. Regularly monitor the plant for signs of growth and development, which indicate that it is thriving in its new home.