Tree Planting & Tree Transplanting Victoria

Our Tree Transplanting Process:

Pre-Transplant Preparation

Tree Health Assessment: Evaluate the tree's vigor, considering factors like leaf health, bark condition, and previous growth patterns. Certain species adapt better to transplantation.

Seasonal Timing

Deciduous: Late autumn or early spring, when trees are dormant, to minimize stress.

Evergreen: Late winter to early spring, or late summer, before or after the main growth spurt.

Site Selection

Look for a site with similar environmental conditions as the original location. Check soil type, drainage, sun exposure, and room for future growth.

Ensure there are no underground infrastructure issues at the new site.

Gathering Tools and Supplies

Essential Tools: Include a spade or shovel, pruning shears or saw, burlap, watering equipment, stakes, and possibly tree wrap for additional protection.

Supplements: Organic matter like compost, mulch for post-planting care.

Transplanting Process

Root Pruning (for larger trees):

About a year or at least a season before moving, encourage new root growth by root pruning. This involves digging around the tree and severing roots at a strategic distance.

Excavation

Dig a circular trench around the tree. The radius should be about 9-12 inches per inch of trunk diameter. 

Under-dig the root ball, aiming to preserve the soil structure around the roots.

Root Ball Management

Use burlap or a specialized tree-moving bag to encase the root ball, helping maintain moisture and integrity during transport.

New Hole Preparation

Excavate a hole that's wider than the root ball for better root expansion but not too deep. Adjust the soil with amendments to match the original soil profile.

Transport and Placement

Move the tree with care, using equipment like a tree dolly or cart for larger specimens to avoid root or branch damage.

Planting

Position the tree, ensuring it's level with its previous planting depth. 

Backfill with soil, pressing gently to remove air pockets but not compacting.

Hydration

Water deeply immediately after planting, ensuring water reaches all parts of the root ball. This might take several gallons.

Stabilization

Stake if the tree is unstable, using ties that won't harm the bark.

Post-Transplant Care

Irrigation: Establish a deep watering schedule, reducing frequency over time to encourage deep root systems. 

Mulching: Spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around but not against the trunk to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pruning

Limit pruning at the time of transplant to reduce stress. Only remove damaged or dead limbs.

Protection

Consider guards or protective barriers for young or newly transplanted trees against animals, lawn equipment, or harsh weather.

Monitoring

Keep an eye out for signs of stress or disease. Adjust care as needed, understanding that recovery can take several seasons.

When you're ready to get started with tree planting or transplanting, call (250) 984-0697 and one of our arborists and tree contractors will be ready to answer your questions and get the process started today.