Article
Tree And Shrub Care: Transplanting
By Joey Reynolds
One of the most important things to consider first, when transplanting a tree or shrub, is location. Many trees and shrubs die from suffocation after transplanting, because their roots had nowhere to go. You also need to consider root structure, species, and the make-up of the soil the plant is currently growing in.
Nursery grown plants are easier to transplant than plants that are already established in the landscape. When transplanting an established plant, you must take the plants' size and health into consideration. If it is an older tree or shrub that has a very large root system, it may not be worth the time trying to transplant; as being moved may stress the plant and damage it. If the tree or shrub is unhealthy, transplanting will only stress it and worsen the health. You need to bring the tree or shrub back to good health before transplanting. Hard woody trees and shrubs are more difficult to move than softwood trees and shrubs.
When to transplant is also a factor. Deciduous trees should be moved in the Winter while they are dormant. Evergreens should be moved in early Spring or Fall, before they start regrowth. A tree that is only a few years old has a better chance of surviving a transplant than an older tree.
Another very important factor when transplanting, is water. A newly transplanted tree or shrub needs thorough watering during the transplant, and should be watered consistently while it is getting established.
Soil is another factor. Since the soil you transplant into does not match the soil the plant was growing in, it is important to include some of the original soil in the new planting hole. If the plant does not like the new soil, its roots will grow in a circle, contained in just the soil of the new hole. This will eventually strangle the plant and it will die.
When transplanting, using a spade is the best tool. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth as the plant was growing in. The crown should be level or a couple of inches above the ground. Add a layer of soil to the bottom of the hole to help ensure the plant is level. If the plant is in a container, lay the container on its side. Carefully pull the plant out and cut an X-shape in the roots; this will eliminate any root boundness, and help ensure the roots spread out. Lower the plant into the hole, making sure it is at the correct level. Water the plants roots, then slowly fill-in with the excavated soil and soil from the container. Continue watering as you add the soil to help prevent airpockets which could kill the plant. Fill the hole completely and tap the soil around the plant, then water again. If the tree is threatened by wind, use a stake to keep it from being uprooted. Mulch the soil to retain moisture and discourage weeds. Keep the plant thoroughly watered until it is established in its' new location.