When can you dig up and replant a tree?

Early spring (before growth begins) and fall (after leaf drop) are the best times to transplant deciduous trees. Evergreens are most successfully transplanted in early spring and late summer (late August to mid-September).

How big of a tree can be transplanted?

A tree that has a 2-inch diameter or less can usually be safely moved by a homeowner within their own yard. 2 to 4 inches in diameter becomes exponentially more difficult. Above 4 inches should be handled by professionals.

Can you move an established tree?

Established trees and shrubs should be only moved if necessary as even with the best care the tree or shrub may fail to thrive or even die. Consider using a specialist contractor to move mature plants or a large number of trees.

What happens if you dig up a tree and transplant it?

All year, trees depend on their roots to funnel water through their branches to feed their canopy. If you were to dig up your tree and transplant it when it’s full of leaves and fruit, you’d cut off its steady flow of water. Then, the tree would suffer from transplant shock and struggle to establish in its new home.

Can a tree be replanted after it is removed from the ground?

Replanting a tree after you’ve removed it from the ground may seem like a daunting task. But with proper instruction, novice gardeners can replant most smaller trees. By evaluating the tree’s condition and maintaining an intact root ball, you’ll be able to keep the tree healthy until you’re ready to plant it.

How big of a hole do you need to dig to replant a tree?

Dig a hole approximately the same depth as the tree’s old hole. If the hole is too deep, water is more likely to pool in the hole when you water your tree and cause root rot. You should dig the hole, however, about 2–3 inches (5.1–7.6 cm) wider than the original hole so you can add more mulch and topsoil.

How to dig up a cedar tree and replant it?

How do you dig up a cedar tree and replant it? Prepare a hole where the cedar tree is to be transplanted. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball of the cedar. If the cedar is being transplanted into the same kind of topsoil, then dig a hole as deep as the root ball, and plant it at the same depth.