Transplanting a tree from one position to another may seem like a pretty straightforward exercise, however there might be more to it than you think. Tree transplanting can be extremely stressful for a tree and if it’s not done correctly, the tree may not survive.
Here we take a look at what’s involved and how your local Arborist can assist, to give your tree the very best chance.
Why Are Trees Transplanted?
There are a number of reasons for transplanting a tree. Some of the most common reasons are:
- Hardscaping or changes to your backyard design that require a tree to be moved
- The tree has outgrown its current position and needs more space
- You’re moving and want to take the tree with you
- To prevent damage a tree is causing in its current position
Transplanting Your Tree
Here are the steps to take to give your tree the best chance of surviving and thriving:
1. Consider When Is The Best Time To Move It
The best time to transplant your tree will largely be determined by the species of the tree, its stage of growth and the conditions. Transplantation is usually best done at a stage of dormancy to allow for fast root growth in the new position.
2. Choose The Right Location
Ideally, you will want to match the conditions of the new location with that of the old, providing the tree was happy and healthy in its old spot. You don’t want to go from full sun to full shade for example. Make sure the new position will allow for the entirety of the root ball and give the tree plenty of room to grow without being too close to buildings, structures, pathways, powerlines or other trees which could be impacted by future growth.
3. Prepare The New Site
For a smooth transition, ensure the new site is prepared and ready to go. Dig out a hole that will be large enough to accommodate the entire root ball of your tree. It’s always better to dig a larger space and fill it in once the planting has been done rather than having to make the hole bigger mid transplant. As a general rule of thumb, the hole should be twice the width of the root ball but not deeper, as this can lead to rotting. Water the hole so that water is immediately available.
4. Dig The Tree Out Safely
How the tree is dug out will depend on the size of the tree. If you have a relatively small tree, you may be able to carefully dig the root ball out and remove the tree from the ground by hand. If your tree is larger or heavy it may not able to be moved by hand and specialty equipment will need to be used. Try to avoid breaking too many roots, so don’t dig too close to the tree trunk. Loosen the soil from around the root ball and gently loosen tightly wound roots.
5. Transplant
Very carefully move the tree to its new position and lower into the hole. The tree should be standing upright and at approximately the same height as it was in its previous spot. Back fill the hole with the removed soil and gently compress.
6. Aftercare
Once your tree has been transplanted, it is important to give it some extra attention to give it a bit of help in taking to its new position. Adding mulch is a great idea to help keep pests and disease away, lock in moisture, repel weeds and regulate soil temperature. Be sure to give your tree adequate water and keep an eye out for any changes that may be a sign of sickness.
How An Arborist Can Help
Tree transplanting can be very laborious and dangerous – especially if it’s a large, heavy tree, where people and property could be injured or damaged. There’s also quite a bit to be considered and it can easily go wrong if not carried out correctly. Tree transplanting is often best left to the professionals.
Your local Arborist will come equipped with expert tree knowledge and skill as well as the appropriate tools and equipment to do the job safely and effectively.
Tree Transplanting & Removal
Give your tree the very best in care and give Brisbane’s Aussie Tree Solutions a call for a free quote on our professional tree transplanting service. We offer a full range of expert tree care and maintenance services, so whether you need tree removal, tree pruning, stump grinding or consulting arborist services, we’ve got the solution.