How to Transplant a Japanese Red Maple and Japanese Red Maple Tree Care
The Japanese red maple is a vibrantly colored deciduous tree that requires little maintenance once established. The tree can reach up to 25 feet high, so homeowners may need to transplant the tree if it interferes with other structures. The best time to move the red maple is in the winter, once the tree has reached dormancy. This lessens the stress and shock experienced by the tree. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Measure the diameter of the tree's trunk with a measuring tape. For every inch of diameter, the root ball has a foot of diameter. Measure out the diameter of the root ball and shove stakes into the ground every 2 to 3 feet to mark the area of the root ball.
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Shove the sharp edge of a garden spade into the ground all around the tree along the diameter of the root ball. This severs the roots. Do not wiggle the shovel when you insert it into the ground. Do this in October or November, as the tree enters dormancy.
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3
Wait 30 days. During this time frame, water the soil around the tree frequently enough to keep the soil moist. On transplanting day, dig a mote around the tree using the root ball diameter markings as the trench line. Fill the mote with water and let the root ball absorb it. Water the site where you will be transplanting the tree to soften the soil.
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Dig underneath the rootball, on a diagonal from the bottom of the trench or mote. Have a helper assist you in grabbing the tree by the root ball and lifting it onto a tarp.
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Dig a hole in the transplanting site that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Have your helper assist you in lowering the tree, roots first, into the new hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the soil. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it as you go, to prevent air pockets. Water until the soil settles once the hole is full.
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Apply a 4-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, but do not let the mulch touch the trunk of the Japanese red maple. Refresh the mulch layer every spring.
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Water the tree once a week to keep the soil moist to the touch.
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Wait two years before you prune the Japanese red maple. When you do prune, remove dead or damaged branches, suckers, or any crossing branches.
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References
- Photo Credit Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
