How to Transplant a Purple Smoke Tree

Hardy, disease resistant and easy to maintain, smoke trees are lovely additions to desert landscapes in the southwestern deserts of the United States.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Garden gloves
• Organic compost
• Leaf mulch
• Sand or fine gravel
• Bucket or pail
• Bucket or tub

Instructions

Choosing Trees To Transplant

1. Select strong, sturdy young saplings without visible broken branches or scarring.

2. Choose healthy seedlings that are from 1 to 2 feet tall.

3. Assess the shape of the young tree considered for transplanting. Select trees with a pleasing shape and growth habit.

Select a Planting Location

1. Choose a location that receives full sun. The smoke tree's fall foliage is spectacular when this tree is planted in an open, sunny location.

2. Consider the size of the tree at maturity. Place the tree in a location that does not interfere with property boundaries, fences, driveways or underground utilities.

3. Select a rocky or graveled soil area. Smoke trees seem to grow best in barren, nutrient-poor soil.

Digging Transplant Trees

1. Dig up the trees to be transplanted, being careful not to harm the root structure.

2. Lift the tree by the root mass. Do not pull or yank on the stem or trunk as this will damage delicate roots.

3. Place the tree in a pail or tub.

4. Cover the roots with water and soak overnight.

Plant Your Tree

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and twice as deep as the root system of the tree you are planting.

2. Center the tree in the hole and align vertically. Smoke trees will not require staking.

3. Fill the hole with a mixture of equal parts of sand, top soil and peat moss.

4. Tamp the soil in gently around the roots to fill voids and air pockets.

5. Water well by soaking the base of the tree.

Tips & Warnings

• Although smoke trees are very drought tolerant, young and newly planted trees require lots of water. Soak the roots weekly during periods of drought.

References

• Smoke Tree
• Smoke Tree
• 'Royal Purple'