How to Transplant A Tree (step-by-step guide)

If you are looking to remove or transplant trees in your backyard get in touch with Low Cut Tree Services, your local tree removal service company Canberra.

There are many reasons why you might need to remove the trees in your back yard. When most homeowners in Melbourne think about tree removal they think that their trees have to be mulched or turned into firewood. However, there is a better option for healthy trees. Tree transplanting.

Irrespective of the tree you move and the area you plan to transport it, there is a range of guidelines to be followed for the healthy and proper transplantation of trees:

How to Transplant A Tree

1. Find a new hole for the planting. It’s going to have to be at least 50 per cent wider than the rootball of the tree you’re moving and at least as big.
2. Using a sharp shape, cut straight down into the dirt, making a circle about 30cm away from the trunk around the tree. If your tree has been in the field for a couple of years, you will most likely need to cut through some of the roots. You want to take as much rootball as you can without being too hard to raise. Ideally, you’ll end up with a ball of roots and soil that is 50-70cm wide and 50cm thick.
3. Place your tree in its new hole and repair at least one stake (two or three for big trees or on windy spots) on the outside of the root ball. Then backfill the dirt, firming it around the roots as you go.
4. Tightly bind your tree to its stakes with stretchy links and water.
5. Add a layer of organic mulch that is 5-10cm thick, but do not pile it up around the truck or the bark will rot.
6. Water carefully during dry periods (but do not over-water) until the tree is well grown.
7. Wait until the tree shows signs of growth before the fertilizer is applied.

What is the Best Time of Year to Transplant A Tree

There are perfect and not so perfect times of the year to plant trees. The best time to move or transplant a tree is when it’s dormant and the ground conditions are just right.

How to Pick a New Home For a Transplanted Tree

The ideal transplant location depends on the size and species of the tree you are going to transplant. Trees prefer varying degrees of shade and sunlight, as well as different soil types. The future height and size of the tree and the location of the home foundations, power lines and underground utilities all influence the location of the plant. Second, you need to classify the tree species. There are several different factors involved in selecting the right position for the tree to be transplanted.

Transplanting Mature Trees VS. Young Trees 

There’s no major difference from transplanting mature trees to young trees. The vigorous growth rate and the easily manageable root ball of a young tree make it relatively easy to transplant. However after transplanting, all trees undergo some degree of shock—the duration of the recovery period simply depends on the consistency of the aftercare. Mature trees can only require more aftercare than younger trees after they have been transplanted.

Can All Tree Types be Transplanted?

Some tree species respond better than others to transplantation. Red maples, elms and bald cypresses generally respond better to transplantation than other species, especially in northern regions. Specifically, red maples have a lot more fibrous root systems so you can capture more when digging.

Most trees can move well, ensuring proper time is given to properly fertilize, root prune, and dig the proper root ball and water before and after transplantation. It is equally necessary to continue the pest management/fertilization program after transplantation, as the tree will have a 1-to 2-year root transition growth before recovery.

The only conditions under which we do not suggest the relocation of a tree include:

The tree is in a state of stress/deterioration that would warrant removal from the tree.

The new position is not appropriate for the stated tree.

Tree Transplanting Tips

• Ensure the time and budget needed to transplant a tree in a thoughtful, timely manner.
• Your tree will lose a large amount of its root system during transplantation. Making sure it is well-hydrated until the transplantation process starts.
• Once the tree is uprooted, tie the crown as much as possible to reduce the limb breakage during travel.
• To limit wind damage and moisture loss, cover the tree in a tarp.
• Water the tree as soon as possible after transplantation. This is the most important thing.

If you are in need of professional help transplanting trees, please get in touch with us at Low Cut Tree Services. Our friendly team would love to help you. Get in touch for your free quote now.