The Steps for Relocating Trees in Your Yard

We all know that trees are our planet's rock stars. And sometimes, moving a tree is necessary for its health and well-being. The process comes with a few caveats so follow these tips to get it done safely!

Having healthy trees is beneficial for the local ecosystem. They offer shade, improve air quality, and make our spaces (and lives) better.

Sometimes, in order to preserve its wellbeing, you need to relocate a tree. And if you want it to survive, you need to do the move correctly. These are the steps for relocating vulnerable trees so you can ensure they survive a changing climate.

Prepare for the move

You don’t want to simply dig the tree out of the ground without a plan. You can damage the roots, and the branches can get in your way. Prepare the tree for removal by watering it the day before, pruning the branches, tying them down, and digging out the surrounding space.

You must keep the roots and attached soil, called the rootball, moist so it doesn’t dry out. Once you have moved it, fill the hole back in to keep the yard looking nice.

Replant in the desired location

An important rule of thumb when replanting a tree is to give it enough space to grow. You should plant at least 4 to 10 feet away from other trees, but you also need to consider the size of the canopy when burying the roots.

If you plant trees too close together, the roots could compete for moisture, and limbs could fall on one another. If relocating onto your property, learn about why you shouldn’t plant trees too close to your home to stick to best practices.

Make sure it’s straight

Once you have dug the hole, you don’t want to simply drop the tree inside. If you don’t replant it correctly, it could grow crooked, creating a hazard and making it harder for it to stand against the wind. If you want to get it right, you must follow a few guidelines.

First, you want your hole to be shallow but wide. This approach will allow the roots to go where they want. Remove any covering or wrap on the rootball, and ensure you set it at the correct height. Keep the tree straight while filling the hole to ensure the tree has enough support to grow.

Improve your ecological footprint with a well-placed tree

There are many things we can do to make the world more livable for us and other species. A well-placed tree offers shade and comfort to animals throughout the year.

Following the steps for relocating vulnerable trees will allow you to safely and effectively replant when necessary, leading to positive ecological change.