Trees dig their roots down into the earth to drink up life-giving water and nutrients. However, the fact that a tree has set down roots and anchored itself into the ground doesn’t mean that it cannot be moved to another location. So, how to transplant a tree for maximum success?
Trees may need to be relocated for a variety of reasons. Perhaps the tree is struggling to thrive due to inadequate nourishment from the soil, or it’s suffering from insufficient sunlight. Maybe a homeowner needs to relocate their favorite tree because it has outgrown its space or is too close to their house. Perhaps the landscaping needs a facelift. Whatever the reason, be sure to research the best conditions suited for the species of tree that will be transplanted.
Ground Rules for Transplanting a Tree
It doesn’t take a professional to know how to transplant a tree. Nonetheless, no matter the species, several ground rules should be followed to healthily and safely transplant a tree.
Time It Right
All seasons aren’t created equal when it comes to transplanting a tree. Hot weather during the peak of the summer growing season puts significant stress on trees. Digging up a tree during the warm weather seasons could cause the tree to potentially suffer permanent damage while it tries to re-establish its nutrient and water sources.
Trees are best transplanted during their dormant seasons, in late fall or early spring. During this time, they’ve already lost their leaves and fruit and are not yet beginning to sprout new growth. They also don’t rely on their water sources to the same extent. Be careful to complete your transplant before the first frost, though. Frozen soil will be much harder to work with, and a frosty ground may impact or damage a newly transplanted tree’s roots.
Prune to Stimulate Growth
A tree more than a few years old will have established longer roots. The intended tree transplant can begin to grow tender new root shoots at the base of the tree. Therefore, prune the tree’s roots in the spring for a fall transplant.
Choose a New Location
Different species of trees thrive in diverse locales. Research what kind of lighting, soil composition, space, and water needs are required for the species of tree to be transplanted, and pick a new location for the tree based on your findings.
Prepare the Tree
The day before tree removal, water it well so that it is hydrated and can endure the stress that transplanting it will likely cause. This will also help the soil stick to the roots during the move. Next, estimate the width of the root ball needed for the tree. The widely accepted standard is that of eleven times the diameter of the tree. Lastly, tie up the crown of the tree with a tarp or net to minimize branch damage and moisture loss.
Dig
Dig a trench about two feet deep and a foot wide around the root ball, cutting roots that extend past the ball with a sharp spade or shovel. Next, dig a hole about three times the width of the root ball, keeping its depth about the same. This extra space allows the extended roots of the tree transplant to spread out and prevent overcrowding.
Transplant
Put the root ball of the tree in the center of the hole, spread out the root extensions, and fill in the edges with the soil, putting the underlayers of dirt first before the top-level soil, and packing it to secure the tree. Water the transplant well and pack down the soil again. Follow the transplant with insect damage inspection and proper tree care so you can minimize transplant shock.
If you’re needing to transplant a tree and would like some expert help, give us a call at Orchard Park Tree Service and we’d be more than happy to go over all of the steps with you.
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