How To Transplant a Small Evergreen Tree

Transplanting a small evergreen tree can breathe new life into your landscape. Whether you’re relocating a tree that’s outgrown its current spot or saving one from a construction zone, the process requires careful planning and execution. In the video, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the proper techniques for successfully moving a small evergreen tree to a new location.

Preparing for Transplanting an Evergreen

Before you begin the transplanting process, properly prepare both the tree and the new planting site. This preparation will help ensure the tree’s survival and successful establishment in its new home.

Choosing the Right Time

Timing is vital when transplanting evergreen trees. The best time to transplant is during the tree’s dormant season, typically in late fall or early spring. This timing minimizes stress on the tree and gives it the best chance of survival in its new location.

Selecting the New Location

When choosing a new spot for your evergreen tree, consider the following factors:

• Sunlight requirements
• Soil type and drainage
• Space for future growth
• Proximity to structures and other plants

Ensure the new location provides adequate space for the tree’s mature size and meets its specific growing needs.

Preparing the New Planting Hole

Proper preparation of the new planting hole is essential for the tree’s success. Cook demonstrates in the video that the new hole should be twice as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower than its height. This allows for easier root establishment and prevents the tree from settling too deeply.

Digging and Preparing the Tree for Transplant

Once you’ve prepared the new site, you can focus on carefully removing the tree from its current location. This process requires precision to minimize damage to the root system.

Measure and Mark the Root Ball

To determine the appropriate size for the root ball, Cook uses a simple rule of thumb—multiply the trunk diameter by 10. For example, a tree with a 3.5-inch trunk diameter would require a 35-inch root ball. Mark this circumference around the tree to guide your digging.

Cut and Dig the Root Ball

Using a sharp spade, cut straight down around the marked circumference to sever the outer roots. Then, dig a trench around the tree, carefully preserving as much of the root system as possible. Use loppers to cleanly cut any thick roots you encounter.

Wrap the Root Ball

Once the root ball is fully exposed, wrap it in burlap to keep the soil intact during transport. Cook demonstrates how to secure the burlap with nails and string, ensuring the root ball remains stable throughout the move.

Moving the Evergreen Tree

With the root ball properly prepared and wrapped, it’s time to move the tree to its new location. This step requires careful handling to avoid damaging the tree or injuring yourself.

Use a Tree Dolly

For larger trees, a specialized tree dolly can make the moving process much easier and safer. In the video, Cook shows how to properly position and use a tree dolly to transport the evergreen tree without straining your back.

Position in the New Hole

Once at the new site, carefully lower the tree into the prepared hole. Ensure it’s positioned at the proper depth, with the top of the root ball slightly above ground level. This prevents water from pooling around the trunk and promotes better drainage.

Replanting the Evergreen and Tree Aftercare

After positioning the tree in its new home, several important steps must be taken to complete the transplanting process and give your evergreen the best chance of thriving.

Backfill and Fertilize

Remove the burlap from around the root ball, demonstrated in the video. Mix some starter fertilizer with the backfill soil to provide essential nutrients for the tree’s establishment. Carefully fill in around the root ball, tamping gently to eliminate air pockets.

Creating a Water Basin

Form a 4-inch-high ring of soil around the tree’s drip line to create a water basin. This helps direct water to the root zone and ensures the tree receives adequate moisture during its critical establishment period.

Staking the Tree

To provide stability and protect against strong winds, stake the newly transplanted tree. Cook shows how to properly install stakes and secure them to the tree using plastic ties, allowing for some movement while preventing the tree from tipping over.

Watering and Mulching

Give the tree a thorough watering immediately after planting. Apply a 2–3 inch layer of bark mulch around the tree’s base, keeping it away from the trunk to prevent moisture-related issues. This mulch layer helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Ongoing Tree Care After Transplanting

Proper care in the weeks and months following transplanting is critical for the tree’s long-term success.

Watering Schedule

Maintain a consistent watering schedule, especially during the first growing season. Deep, infrequent watering encourages deep root growth and helps the tree establish itself in its new location.

Monitoring for Stress

Keep a close eye on the tree for signs of transplant shock or stress, such as wilting, yellowing leaves, or branch dieback. Promptly address any issues that arise to give the tree the best chance of survival.

Removing Stakes

After one year, remove the stakes and ties from the tree. This allows the tree to develop a stronger trunk and root system as it adapts to its new environment.

Choosing the Right Evergreen Species

Selecting the right evergreen tree species for your specific environment is essential for a successful transplant. Some trees may adapt better to certain soil types, climates, and light conditions. Consider the following tips when choosing your evergreen:

• Climate compatibility: Ensure the tree species is suited to your local climate. Consulting with local nurseries or extension services can help you choose a tree that will thrive.
• Soil preferences: Different evergreen species have varying soil requirements. Some prefer well-drained sandy soils, while others can tolerate clay. Make sure to match the tree to your soil type.
• Future growth: Consider the mature size of the tree. Ensure that it has enough space to grow without interfering with buildings, power lines, or other trees.

Popular species such as the Colorado blue spruce, Douglas fir, and white pine each have unique features and requirements, making them suitable for different landscapes.

Soil Amendments and Nutrition for an Evergreen Tree

Providing the right nutrient balance is crucial for the newly transplanted tree. Soil amendments can improve soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability. Here are some steps to enhance your soil, giving your evergreen the best start.

Testing and Amending the Soil

Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient levels and pH balance. Based on the findings:

• Add compost: Integrating organic compost can help improve the soil structure and fertility, providing necessary nutrients and enhancing microbial activity.
• Adjust pH levels: If the soil is too acidic or alkaline for the chosen tree species, consider amending it with lime to raise the pH. In acidic soils, lime can raise the pH, while sulfur can lower it in alkaline soils.
• Fertilizers: Use a balanced fertilizer or one specifically designed for evergreens to ensure the tree receives essential nutrients during the critical establishment phase.

Addressing Common Challenges Transplanting an Evergreen

Transplanting evergreen trees can present its own challenges. Understanding and addressing these potential issues can contribute to a smoother transplant process and better tree health.

Dealing with Root Shock

Transplant shock can manifest in stunted growth, yellowing needles, and overall poor vigor. To mitigate this, make sure to water regularly, mulch properly, and provide shade.

Pest and Disease Management

Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that may affect newly transplanted evergreens. Regular visual inspections can catch problems early while consulting with local experts for recommendations on treating local pests like beetles or diseases like root rot will help you manage these problems.

Growth Support

Staking and protecting the tree during its initial years helps establish a strong root system and sturdy trunk. The stakes and ties shouldn’t girdle the tree—it needs some movement to promote sturdy growth. Regularly check the tree’s growth and remove stakes once the tree is stable.

Required Tools