Tree Transplanting

Tree transplanting is definitely a job best left to the professionals.  That is especially true when it comes to moving a mature or larger tree.  In any case, without the right equipment it's back breaking work. Specialized equipment called a tree spade is a must. The reason is that the root earth ball diameter should be one foot for every one inch of tree trunk diameter. For example a 2.5 inch caliper tree trunk measurement would required a 2.5 foot diameter root earth ball similar to the photo at right.   That equates to approximately 900 pounds in weight. (almost half a ton)  
When to transplant trees?   Did you know that transplanting at the wrong time for most trees can result in less than satisfactory results?    Yes, there is a right time and a wrong time to do it.  Spring or fall is a good time to transplant most deciduous trees.   This is their dormant season when there are no leaves on the tree.  Optimally, fall transplanting is best done after there has been a couple of freezes (below 0-degrees C).   For spring transplanting  it's best to wait until after the frost has lifted but before the tree begins to bud and leaf.   If you'd rather leave it to the experts give us a call.
There is a correct way to water a freshly transplanted tree:
  • If nature is not supplying at least one inch of rain water per week        then you should water the trees liberally once a ★ week.

  • The best watering procedure is to move your hose all around the base of the tree to effectively reach the entire root zone.  Do it slowly. Let the water sink and repeat while making sure to cover all areas. 

  • Mornings are the best time to water.   You don't want the leaves to remain wet over night because fungi does well in this environment.
      
  • If you notice wilting this suggests the plants are getting too much water causing stress.
      
  • Keep in mind that when plants are actively growing they need more water than when they are dormant.
  ★ If the trees are planted in compacted clay it would be wise to water every two weeks. The planting hole in this case acts like a barrel and will hold water for longer. This tends to suffocate the roots of the tree.