You can move it right now. Since it's fairly young it will be easy. Just dig as deep as possible and if you can keep the rootball intact without disturbing the roots it will not even notice it's been moved.

Thanks. That's good to hear. The ground is mostly frozen again. Nights have been dropping to 19 degrees, and days are high 20's / low thirties. We've had several thaws where the ground had softened up nicely. I think in a week or so it's supposed to get into the 40's. I'll do it then, and put a fence around the plant until then.
~Bunnycat

Hi Bunnycat,

Be sure that the area is well watered the day or so before you dig. I move hellebores here all year round, and if I bring along a nice rootball, they don't seem to mind a bit.

Sounds like you need some steppables!

Laura

Hi Laura,
If "steppables" are stepping stones (flagstone pieces), I do have those. But everything seems to like to root along the edges. And the metermen ignore the path anyway, and tromp right through my garden in the spring. Some of my hostas get very tall eyes before they unfurl, and the meter guys smash them to pieces. :o(

Hi Bunnycat,

I meant the kinds of plants that don't mind being stepped on. I'm trying several on a shady path through my back gardens. It'll be interesting to see what takes over.

My meterman was a stinker for a long time - leaving the gate open and letting my dogs out. After several requests with him directly, I called his boss. He learned to shut the gate in a hurry!

Your MM may have no idea that he's causing damage. Non-gardeners don't seem to see what their big feet are smashing. I have a good friend who loves to tour my gardens, but can't seem to help squashing a plant or two in the process - very frustrating!

Laura