Successful Tree Transplant

Successfilly transplanting a tree is harder the older the plant is. Ideally it should be done over 2 years, working in the dormant season.

The first winter the aim is to cut a channel around the tree, at a distance that severs just the fine roots. Then the space is back filled with fine soil. The hope is that the following summer, roots will reestablish in the loose soil. The following winter the tree is fully dug out severing the structural roots, but without have to damage the new roots. The tree is then replanted as quickly as possible, without the rootball drying out.

I was pleased this week to see a young Oak we had transplanted using this method, successfully coming into bud in its new location.