Transplanting a tree is a common practice in the forestry industry, but it can be a risky and time-consuming process. The cost of transplanting a tree depends on the size and type of tree, the challenges faced by the tree removal company, and the equipment needed to prevent tree limbs from falling on nearby structures. Labor costs also factor in the total cost of planting trees, and most landscape companies charge a flat hourly rate. An experienced team under ideal conditions should be able to dig up the tree, wrap the root ball, prepare it for transplantation, plant it in its new location, fill the hole left by the tree and clean everything in one day.
However, successfully transplanting large trees may be difficult. To reduce these risks, many people recommend transplanting young trees that are easier on their root systems and have more energy to grow at this point of development. The industry standard root ball for transplanting a tree is a ratio of 10-1 inch gauge to root ball in feet. Root pruning is not always necessary before transplanting in the growing season, but it is strongly recommended, especially in the hot summer months.
Tree shovels are used for larger trees, although sometimes you have to dig a large tree by hand due to site conditions, in which case digging will cost more than with a tree shovel. When tree planting is part of a larger home repair or modification project, the total cost of the project can be substantial. Although transplanting is a difficult and often expensive process, it can be very rewarding for those who are passionate about gardening.
