Tree Transplanting

Tree transplanting is necessary for homeowners who want to rearrange their garden landscape or who wish to transplant mature tree. Whether you want to transfer a bush or move a tree that will eventually your view once it grows taller, tree transplanting involves time, money, energy and care. While you will likely need to hire a landscaper or a tree surgeon in order to achieve successful tree transplanting, it is helpful to understand the process.

Tree Transplanting

Planning ahead is essential for successful tree transplanting. You will need to know which tree must be transplanted and where exactly it will be transferred to. The new location must meet climate and soil requirements. You must also consider the perfect time to do the transplanting. Not all trees will survive transplanting no matter how carefully the tree is moved.

Trees have better chances of survival when they are transplanted while they are still young. The best time to transplant trees is during early springtime before they start growing new leaf buds. Some plant experts recommend transplanting trees during the monsoon months in order to promote root establishment. The dormant stage of the tree is also ideal. This generally occurs from December to March, but if the weather is too cold, February to March may be the best months.

To begin transplanting, you will need to dig a hole after you have chosen the right location. The hole should be 2-3 times as large as the root ball of the tree. If you are uncertain, dig around the tree to determine how large its root system is. Digging a hole too deep will cause the roots to rot, killing the tree.

Mark the tree as you remove it from its original spot. This will give you an indicator of the direction it was originally facing. The tree has a better chance of staying healthy if it continues to face the same direction, so you will want to keep this in mind as the tree is moved..

To remove the existing tree, start digging about 12 inches out of the tree’s base. Use a sharp shovel to allow you to see where the roots are. If the ground is hard and dry, water it first. Do not just pull the tree. Carefully dig around it to loosen it up. When transporting the tree, use a large burlap to drag the tree from one location to another.

Plant the tree in its new hole, planting it a little deeper than its original location. Fill up the hole with soil. Water the ground to prevent any air pockets. Do not over water. For young plants, add stakes for support. You should also add mulch instead of fertilizer. Fertilizer will only stress the roots.

Because tree transplanting is such a complicated process, it is essential to ensure your landscaper or tree surgeon has experience in transplanting and a carefully thought out plan for how to make the transplant a success.