Relocating an Adult Tree: Is it Possible?

Relocating an adult tree can be a challenging but feasible endeavor. In regions like Wellington, where properties often include fences in Wellington and mature trees, it's essential to consider the tree's health, size, and species before attempting relocation. The process involves carefully excavating the tree's root ball and transplanting it to a new location with suitable soil conditions. While it's possible, success depends on factors like proper preparation, timing, and aftercare. Hiring professionals with experience in tree relocation is advisable to ensure the best chances of survival for the tree. Relocating adult trees can help preserve their beauty and environmental benefits while accommodating property changes or landscaping preferences.

Relocating an adult tree is possible, but it requires careful planning and the help of a certified arborist. The size of the tree and its root system will determine the best method for transplanting. Smaller trees can be moved with a tree shovel, while larger trees may require digging, wrapping, or even cranes. To ensure a successful transplant, it is important to obtain a root ball large enough to support the tree after relocation.

Root pruning several months before the move can help the tree better adapt to its new location. Relocating a tree can be expensive, but it is worth it for the long-term health of the tree. When it comes to relocating an adult tree, size matters.

Larger or older plants

will need to be excavated and transplanted with the root ball intact. For a transplant to be successful, it must include as much of the root system of the plant as reasonably possible.

In general, you'll need at least 10 to 12 inches in root ball diameter for every inch of trunk diameter. This means that if the diameter of the trunk is 2 inches, the root ball that will need to be excavated is 24 inches wide. Cutting too many roots can cause shock to the transplant that may be too devastating for it to recover. The process of transplanting a tree begins several months before relocating it with root pruning. This encourages the growth of new feeder roots (which absorb water and nutrients) closer to the base of the tree to help it better adapt to its new location.

Depending on the size and type of tree, different methods may be used for relocation. For example, palms are easily transplanted and can be relocated on the ground with a good chance of survival. Relocating a tree can be expensive, but it is worth it for its long-term health. A company recently needed to relocate several trees due to an office expansion. None could be moved with a shovel and the company's founder had planted them, so they were willing to bear the expense of having them relocated by a certified arborist.