TREE EDUCATION

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How To Safely Transplant Trees

Jun 18th 2025

A tree can add value and timeless class to a property. Whether you are moving to a new address or your tree has outgrown its current location, transplanting can help incorporate sentimental foliage throughout your home.

At SkyFrog Tree Service, our team of master arborists has over 40 years of experience in tree preservation and care. Our arborists will evaluate your tree for potential health issues or safety concerns in order to develop a comprehensive transplant plan, tailored to your specific landscaping needs.

Safely transfer your favorite trees with our arborist services in Gainesville, FL. Contact our Gainesville tree care company today to schedule an appointment.

Treat For Pests

The transplant process is only effective when the tree is in good health. Before transplanting your plant, thoroughly inspect the branches, leaves, and trunk for signs of pests or disease. Treat any problems before moving the plant to ensure that it will be strong enough to withstand the transfer. In the event that a tree is severely damaged or heavily affected by mites, bugs, or disease, it might need to be replaced rather than transferred.

Prune The Roots

Feeder roots are small roots that extend from your tree to absorb water and nutrients. Without feeder roots, the plant will not have enough nutrients to produce new growth and conduct photosynthesis. By pruning the tree's roots, you can stimulate the feeder roots that are close to the tree's trunk.

The most common issue homeowners run into when transplanting a mature tree is root damage. During the uprooting process, the root system will likely become lost or damaged.

When conducting a mature tree transplant, preparation is key. Do not wait before replanting–if possible, transplant the tree immediately. If you plan on transplanting your tree during the fall, prune the roots during the spring before new buds start to show. Likewise, if you plan on transplanting your tree during the spring, prune the roots during the fall before the leaves begin to drop.

The timing of when you transplant your tree can significantly impact its rate of reestablishment success. Transplanting a tree at the wrong time of year can lead to transplant shock syndrome. The tree will start to display several stressors, and its health will rapidly diminish. When transplanting, moisten the soil in the freshly dug hole to reduce transplant shock.

Mimic Previous Growing Conditions

For best results, your transplanted tree should be facing the same direction it was previously. This ensures that the tree is receiving the same amount of sunlight, whether full sun, partial shade, or full shade. Moreover, the hole in which you are planting your transplant should be 2 to 3 times the width of the tree's current root ball.

Practice Frequent Tree Care

Routine tree management is essential to fast and effective growth. Create a watering schedule that holds you accountable for checking the tree's soil for retained root moisture. To lengthen the time between required waterings, place a 2–3 inch mulch layer around the base of the transplant, while avoiding the mulch from touching the tree's trunk. The mulch will not only help the soil retain moisture, but it will also promote new root growth and discourage weeds from penetrating the soil.

It is also advisable to wait up to a year before fertilizing your newly transplanted tree. Fertilizing too early can encourage stressful and unwanted growth that might weaken your tree. Generally, it will take some time before your tree will begin to recover. The tree will likely not produce any fruit, blossoms, or growth until it has entirely adjusted to its new environment.

For tree restoration and management services, contact SkyFrog Tree Service today!