There are many reasons why homeowners might need to move a tree. They may want to make room for a new addition or reposition a tree for better sunlight exposure.
In other cases, the tree may have outgrown its location and need to be transferred to a spot with more room for it to grow. No matter the reason, tree replanting requires planning and expertise.
Learning how to replant a tree is not that simple because there are several factors to consider before deciding to uproot it.
This article provides a concise overview of all you need to know about tree replantation, including reasons why it’s necessary and how to do it effectively.
What Is Tree Transplanting?
Tree transplanting is simply the process of uprooting a tree from its original spot and moving it to a new one. Relocating a tree must be executed correctly using the proper steps of pruning, root preparation, and tree care. Trees are less likely to survive in their new home without this methodical approach.
Generally, relocating a small number of trees may not pose many difficulties, but a medium to large-scale tree relocation can be tricky. The key to successful tree transplantation is in making sure the roots are strong enough to withstand the transfer. Otherwise, the tree might die from root loss.
Reasons for Replanting Trees
There are various reasons why replanting trees is a good option. One of the most common ones is to save a perfectly healthy tree. Rather than removing it completely, it makes more sense to keep it due to the relaxing aesthetic it gives. Not to mention, it is better for the environment by providing clean air.
Other reasons concern preserving a home or landscape. When a tree has grown too large for the space in which it was originally placed, this can damage walls and concrete or even impede on electrical wiring. This can be incredibly dangerous and requires the help of tree relocation professionals.
The Best Time To Move Trees
One honest mistake some homeowners make when learning how to transplant a tree is trying to move it any time of the year. This can be detrimental to the tree’s overall health and survival. The best time to move a tree is during early spring, before any growth begins, or during the fall, after the leaves have already fallen. This applies to deciduous trees, which shed their leaves every year.
For evergreens, the best time to move them is during early spring or late summer. If the tree replantation is done in winter, it will be difficult to get the spade in the hardened ground. If the relocation is done in summer, it will be too hot and cause the leaves to wilt. Whatever happens, it’s important not to let the roots dry out before they get a chance to be transplanted.
Factors to Consider Before Relocation
Any tree that needs to be replanted must be carefully evaluated according to the following factors:
Health
If a tree is in poor form or has aged considerably, then it’s not a great candidate for relocation. It cannot easily re-establish its root system once transplanted.
Size
A small tree has more chances of surviving a relocation than a large one. It will be harder to move larger trees due to logistic considerations, too.
Root System
The size of the root ball is a very important thing to consider when moving trees. If a tree does not have one that’s large enough, it will not have enough roots to recover quickly.
Species
Some tree species are invasive and do not qualify for replanting. These trees have low conservation value.
Amount of Pruning
If the tree’s form may be impossible to recover after being transplanted, then a replantation may not be worth it. This refers to the amount of pruning necessary to ensure a successful relocation.
Survival Rate
A tree with an imbalanced form or that has cracks, splits, and cavities may be less likely to survive a tree explanation. In this case, it may not be cost-efficient to go through with the process.
Steps on How To Transplant a Tree
The proper way of replanting trees follows these steps to guarantee quick healing and healthy regrowth:
- Choose the transplant location.
- Prepare the planting hole.
- Dig out the tree.
- Wrap up the roots.
- Placing the tree into the hole.
- Fill up the hole with soil.
- Add mulch to the soil.
- Transplant the tree.
- Water after replanting.
Move Trees Safely With Expertise and Care
Replanting trees can be done safely with the right help. When considering a tree relocation consider hiring an arborist also it’s important to understand why you’re doing it, along with all the factors involved to make sure the tree stays healthy after transplanting it.
Why settle for a DIY tree replanting when it can be done accurately by tree professionals? At Panorama Tree Care, we provide expert services and exceptional care for trees that need to be moved. Contact us today to get a free estimate.
