Excessive stress on plants before transplanting can lead to what outcome?

Excessive stress on plants before transplanting can lead to less successful transplantation due to several factors. When plants experience high levels of stress, such as from extreme weather conditions, inadequate watering, or nutrient deficiencies, their health and vigor are compromised. This weakens the plants, making them less capable of adapting to new environments after being transplanted.

A stressed plant may not be able to establish itself effectively in its new location, leading to a higher risk of transplant shock, which can manifest as wilting, stunted growth, or even death. Successful transplantation relies on the ability of plants to recover from the shock of being moved and to adapt to new soil and environmental conditions. Therefore, managing stress before transplanting is crucial for the overall success of the process.