Sometimes you just have to move an established tree or shrub from one part of the garden to another. Maybe you’re adding a deck in the back yard, and a small tree is in the way. Or maybe the previous homeowners planted a shrub that you’d prefer in a different spot. Whatever the reason, the secret to transplant success is all about good timing, good technique and good watering after the move.
Successful transplanting requires a few tools, a good amount of digging and thorough watering to restore water loss from the root ball during planting and to settle the soil in the hole.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
The best time to transplant trees and shrubs is generally in fall or early winter, when deciduous plants are dormant and evergreens are in a resting state. Moving plants in the dormant season allows the plant’s energy to be directed to root growth, so that by the time top growth occurs in spring the roots will be ready to provide the water and nutrient uptake required.
Another reason it’s best to transplant during the dormant season is to keep water loss through a plant’s leaves to a minimum. During dormancy, deciduous plants have dropped their leaves, while evergreen leaves continue to transpire (or lose water) at a much slower pace. If you have no choice and need to transplant an evergreen or deciduous plant during the growing season, consider using an antitranspirant spray. Available at most garden centers, these sprays reduce the amount of water loss through the leaves and ease transplanting shock.
When it’s time to transplant, dig a trench around your tree or shrub, aiming to get as large a root ball as you can. For a spreading plant, dig at least midway between the trunk and the branch tips. For a columnar plant, allow 1 foot in diameter of root ball for every 2 feet of plant height.
As you trench around your tree or shrub, push the shovel straight down to get as clean a cut as possible on the roots. (It may help to remove some of the excess soil with a hand trowel as you dig deeper.) After you’ve dug 1½-3 feet deep, carefully lever up the root ball, supporting it as much as possible with a broad, flat shovel.
Carefully transport the plant to its new location, using a wheelbarrow or the help of a friend if necessary. Replant as soon as you possibly can, employing the same techniques used for planting a new tree or shrub. Irrigate immediately, then continue to water well throughout the next growing season or until the plant is well-established. For step-by-step instructions, follow the steps shown in the following pictures and described in their captions. Happy transplanting!
Tree Transplanting
Tree Transplanting - Step 1
After leaves have fallen, prune the tree’s outer and top seasonal growth, reducing the crown by about 1/3 and leaving the growth points. Also remove any low branches and trim the small, interior twigs.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Tree Transplanting - Step 2
Using flour or garden lime, mark a circle around the tree directly beneath its outermost branches at the drip line. Dig a vertical trench outside the circle, 2-3 feet wide and 1½-3 feet deep.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Tree Transplanting - Step 3
Use a saw to cut off branching roots that extend into the trench. Soil under the tree’s roots should be 8-12 inches deep.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Tree Transplanting - Step 4
Working from opposite sides, work your way under the tree to its center. Place timbers to support the root ball as it’s freed.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Tree Transplanting - Step 5
With helpers or lifting equipment, support and raise the root ball. Wrap it with burlap to hold the soil in place before transporting it to its new site, then plant as you would a specimen tree.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
