When should trees be transplanted? Moving these impressive, complex organisms to a more suitable spot might feel intimidating, but all it takes is due diligence.
As Milton’s trusted tree service, we at Georgia Tree Company know the best season to uproot your beloved specimen. Keep reading as our veteran crew breaks down all the nitty-gritty details!
It Depends on the Variety
Do you have a lovely eastern redbud, red maple, or other deciduous species? Move the tree in early spring before the leaves begin to return or early fall as soon as their foliage color changes.
For evergreens like loblolly pines and southern magnolias, forego a transplant during an active growth flush or in the fall when it’s too late for them to establish before the winter chill arrives. The latter half of summer is usually the best time to do it.
What to Do Next After Picking the Time to Transplant Trees
Knowing the answer to, “When should trees be transplanted?” is only the first step. Don’t just jump right into the project; you need to conduct some prep work first!
Choose the Perfect Spot
Accounting for aesthetics alone isn’t enough. Ensure your tree will thrive in its new home by assessing light levels, drainage, soil pH, nearby competition, and more. The new spot you want may also have pipelines and power lines nearby.
Make Measurements
To properly transplant the plant, you need to keep the root systems and their accompanying ball of dirt, or the “root ball,” intact. Deciduous trees with an inch of trunk diameter need about an 18-inch hole, while evergreens with a foot-long branch spread need a 12-inch hole.
Water Your Tree
Before you pick up the shovel, give your tree a hearty drink of water. This will soften up the soil and make it easier to dig through. It also minimizes shock for the tree during the move.
Transplanting Day
Now the challenging part. Follow these steps for a successfully transplanted tree:
- Take a sharp spade shovel and dig around the measured root ball before cutting the roots to round it out.
- Tip the root ball to one side, slide a burlap in the hole, and roll the roots into it. Use twine to secure the cloth and place it in your wheelbarrow for transport. Always lift from the bottom to prevent damage.
- Carefully place the specimen in the prepped hole. The root ball’s top should like just above ground level but no more than an inch. Cut and remove the twine and burlap, then fill the hole with loose soil from the tree’s old spot.
Trees with over a two-inch diameter require heavy-duty equipment to dig up and move. Even young specimens can prove quite the undertaking, even for an experienced gardener. Why not let a professional team do the heavy lifting for you?
Call Georgia Tree Company at 404-990-0010! Our specialists know the answer to, “When should trees be transplanted?” and can help them fully recover after the move. We also offer emergency tree care for storm damage, major pest infestations, and other pressing issues.