Tree relocation tips

Garden, Tips • Views: 2690

With the continuing urbanization and over-development around the globe, it is easy to feel helpless when it comes to environment conservation. Statistics reveal that the rates of deforestation are growing rapidly. Destroying nature affects negatively all aspects of our lives.


Unfortunately, moving a tree is not something that a lot of people would think about. Sadly, the majority of people will simply cut down the trees that just happen to stand in the way of construction. In this article we are going to talk about how you can save trees by relocating them. Our philosophy is simple – it feels good to do good.

Relocating a tree requires a lot of skill, patience, planning and preparation. Many transplants die because of improper removal or installation. Prior to transplanting, you need to determine if the tree you are going to move likes sun or shade, how much space it needs and what are its watering requirements. When you find the perfect location, start by digging the new hole before you dig up the tree. Once you dig up the plant, your chances of successful transplanting decrease with time.

beautiful tree

You will have to estimate the width and depth of the rootball by doing a little exploratory digging around the tree. The width of the new hole you are going to dig should be twice that of the rootball. It should also be a little shallower to avoid puddling and consequent rotting. When you reach the bottom of the new hole, do not break up the soil beneath. This will not help the tree, allowing the roots to penetrate deeper. Instead, it might cause the tree to sink, which may cause rotting.

To dig out the tree, selected for transplanting, start digging aroud the perimeter of the base, not right at it. You should be able to get a feel for where the main mass of roots lies. Also, now would be the time to judge what the weight of the plant would be, plus the roots and the soil clinging to them. You need to keep the rootball as much intact as possible. Usually you will have to cut through some of the roots of a mature plant, because the larger it is, the smaller the chances to get out the entire rootball. Once you have removed enough soil, you will be able to loosen the grip of the tree on the soil bellow it. After it’s loose, spread a tarp on the ground nearby and gently move the tree onto the tarp. Drag the tree to the new hole and gently slide it into it. Carefully get it straight and shovel the excavated soil back into the hole. Press this soil down tightly, watering it as you go, to eliminate any air pockets. If air pockets form, this might cause the tree to shift after transplanting. Mound the soil around the newly transplanted tree so that it catches water like a basin. This will help keep the roots well watered, until it becomes established.

tree transplanting

Keep in mind that the first summer would be difficult for the transplanted tree to weather, unless it gets plenty of water. Watering is essential for the successful tree transplanting. You might want to remember that, for most trees, late winter or early spring is the best time for transplanting, and fall is the second best time. In the summer it is too hot, while in the middle of the winter the job could be impossible. For large trees, seek the professional help of a tree relocation service. They are experienced in the delicate process of mature tree transplanting and have the necessary skills and equipment to do the job.

When you need to get a tree out of the way of construction, don’t just cut it down. Through the use of carefully executed transplanting techniques, fully grown trees can be successfully transplanted in any residential or commercial lot. Preserve the majestic beauty of large trees in your home environment.

Tags: , ,