When it comes to moving and replanting trees, size is an important factor to consider. Homeowners can safely move trees with a diameter of 2 inches or less within their own yard. Anything larger than 4 inches should be handled by professionals. Species and size are the first components to analyze, as they will determine the best methods to use.
Generally, any tree with a trunk diameter (gauge) of 10 or less can be moved with a shovel. For trees that can't be moved with a shovel, old labor and heavy equipment are used to dig and transport them. Transplanting a large tree can be difficult, as it often loses a significant part of its roots in the process. To help the tree recover, the key is to grow roots that can travel with it to its new location.
Smaller trees can be moved with a tree shovel, which can dig the new hole and excavate and transport the tree. Larger trees may require digging, wrapping, or wrapping the root ball and then transporting it by truck. Some trees can even be moved with cranes. Companies like Davey and Big Trees can move trees with logs up to 9 inches in diameter, about 30 feet tall, using their truck-mounted shovels.
After the move, proper care is essential for the tree's survival. It may take three to five years or more for the tree to settle into its new home. Most of the trees that National Shade moves are historically important, protected by tree conservation laws, or are a topic of great interest to the community. The best time to move a tree is usually in fall or winter, but different species have their own preferences and local climatic factors should also be taken into account.
The root ball is dug by hand or excavated with a hydraulic tree shovel. The hole doesn't have to be particularly deep; most tree roots grow on top two to three feet (0.6 to 0.9 m) above the ground. Moving trees is an effective way to maintain them when they get in the way of developing or building the landscape on your property. It can even increase their longevity, as they are revitalized by the good soil in their new site and the fresh cuts that allow their roots to grow back.
