How to Transplant a Tree or Large Shrub

Moving an established tree or shrub is not something to be done on a whim. It takes about a year's worth of preparation, and transplanting must be done when the plant is dormant.

Things You'll Need

• Spades
• Sphagnum Moss
• Burlap
• Wooden Boards

Instructions

1. Root the plant a year before you plan to move it. Using a sharp spade, dig a trench around the plant that is about two feet deep and as wide as the spade. In the process, you will sever the roots. The trench should be three to four feet from a small tree or shrub, five to eight feet from a larger one.

2. Fill the trench with sphagnum moss. The plant will form a compact root system inside the boundary and will be better able to withstand the move.

3. Prune the plant well several weeks before transplanting. (See Related eHows.)

4. Wait until you are ready to move the plant, and then dig a trench in a circle at least a foot from the crown. Dig down at least two feet, separating a ball of earth that includes the roots.

5. Rock the ball gently back and forth until it moves loosely, and you can lift it out of the hole. Use a board for leverage, and get help for this part of the process - even small shrubs are heavy.

6. Set the plant and its ball of soil on a piece of burlap, wrap the burlap around the soil to keep it from crumbling, and move it to a spot protected from sun and strong winds. Remember to slide the plant, never roll it, and take care not to let it drop - roots are fragile.

7. Wait at least two weeks before replanting. Meanwhile, keep the plant in its sheltered spot and water often and gently, keeping the soil moist.

Tips & Warnings

• When you've removed the plant from its hole, the size of the root ball should be 6 to 12 inches wide for every inch of trunk diameter.

• If you have to move the plant any distance from its hole or if you're moving several plants, consider renting a handcart made for the purpose. If your local nursery can't supply one, it should be able to put you in touch with a rental company that can.

• For the sake of its health and your own, don't even try to move a large tree or very large shrub; that's a job best left to a pro. As for how big is too big, if there's any question in your mind at all, it's too big.