How to Transplant & Care for a Hemlock Tree

Hemlock trees are tall and graceful evergreens that are hardy in most climates and take well to being transplanted. Grown in large groups, they are the perfect screen for privacy and harsh sunlight. They are not related to the poisonous Hemlock plant, which is usually found growing near streams and ponds. Unless you have an allergy to pine needles or the needles of other coniferous plants, the needles can be gathered and brewed into a delicious tea rich in Vitamin C.

Things You'll Need

• Work gloves
• Tape measure and marker
• Shovel
• Water
• Vehicle for transport (such as a wheelbarrow)

Instructions

1. Find a place where you want to place the transplanted Hemlock Tree. Like all evergreens, Hemlocks require little light, but getting a few hours a day will keep them healthier. You can easily transport the tree if it is less than 5 feet tall. However, if it is bigger than 5 feet, then you'll need professional help.

2. Measure the height and the circumference of the existing tree. Make a small mark with your marker to show where you began and continue around until you get to the mark showing where you started. Dig a circle around the tree that is double in size of the circumference of the tree.

3. Prepare the hole that will receive the tree before uprooting it. Use the approximate dimensions you got from the tree's circumference and height. The hole should be deep enough to accommodate the roots of the tree. You will probably need a day for the digging of the new hole and a day for taking the tree out of its present home. Ask a friend to help with this project.

4. Use a strong shovel and begin digging from the point farthest away from the tree. Dig in a circle around the tree using more care as you get close to the tree and you begin to see roots. Avoid cutting too many roots and leave about 10 inches of root ball for the tree.

5. Use the shovel to lift the tree out of its hole with a gentle motion. Do not tug or pull the tree by the trunk but lift the tree from the bottom. If you need to dig down farther, do so. Try to maintain as much of the soil that clings to the roots as possible.

6. Transport the tree in a car, wagon or wheelbarrow depending on its size. Place several inches of water in the new hole and ask a friend to help you place the tree in its new home. Make sure you place it in and hold it upright as your friend begins to fill the hole with the dirt that was removed from the hole.

7. Be sure to get the roots and part of the body of the tree beneath the soil. Stop periodically to make sure the tree is straight. Fill in the rest of the soil and water generously.

Tips & Warnings

• Place some growth agent in the hole before putting the tree into the new hole.

• Do not allow children to eat the needles until you are sure that they are not allergic.

• Do not try to move a tree that is old or very large. Get a professional to do this.

References

• Save Georgia's Hemlock Trees: Instructions for Planting a Hemlock