How to Replant a Tree

Replanting a tree after you've removed it from the ground may seem like a daunting task. But with proper instruction, novice gardeners can replant most smaller trees. By evaluating the tree's condition and maintaining an intact root ball, you'll be able to keep the tree healthy until you're ready to plant it. If you plant the tree carefully into the new location and take routine care of the plant, your tree is more likely to survive transplanting!

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Readying the Tree

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1
Evaluate whether the tree is healthy enough to move. If your tree is unhealthy, it's more likely to die from shock while being replanted. If your tree is dehydrated or diseased, try to treat its ailment as much as possible before moving it.^{[1]XResearch source}
- Trees older than 3 years are more likely to suffer damage while being transplanted.^{[2]XResearch source}
- Amateur gardeners should not attempt to transplant trees with a trunk diameter larger than 2 inches (5.1 cm). Large trees should be replanted by a landscape contractor or nursery professional.^{[3]XResearch source}
The best time to replant a tree is in late fall or winter, when the tree is dormant and less likely to experience trauma. If your tree is healthy and does not immediately need replanting, keep it in its original location until its dormant season.^{[4]XResearch source}
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3
Remove the tree from the ground. Using a shovel, remove the topsoil surrounding the roots nearest to the tree's base. These roots will form the tree's root ball, and you will transplant it with the tree trunk. Dig underneath the root ball and pull the tree up and out of the ground.
- Dig up 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) of root ball for every 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the tree's trunk diameter.
- Water the soil 24 hours before you remove the tree to make digging it out easier.
Using a small shovel, dig away all soil clumps from the root ball. Wrap the entire ball in untreated natural burlap, and stitch it tightly around the tree with an upholstery needle and untreated natural twine.^{[5]XTrustworthy SourcePenn State ExtensionEducational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communitiesGo to source}
As you transport the tree to its new location, grab it by the base of the trunk. Grip it above the root ball to prevent breaking the roots. If the tree is too heavy for you to carry, put it in a cart or wheelbarrow.^{[6]XTrustworthy SourcePenn State ExtensionEducational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communitiesGo to source}
6
Replant the tree immediately after removing it. If possible, replant the tree the same day that you removed it from the ground. Your tree is less likely to sustain shock and reject its new climate if you put it back into the soil immediately.^{[7]XResearch source}
- Don't wait any longer than several days to a week to replant your tree.

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Positioning the Tree

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If your tree was thriving in its old location, you should choose a place with the same soil type, weather conditions, and shade levels as the last hole. Research what conditions your tree does best in if you are removing the tree to improve its health.
2
Dig a hole approximately the same depth as the tree's old hole. If the hole is too deep, water is more likely to pool in the hole when you water your tree and cause root rot. You should dig the hole, however, about 2–3 inches (5.1–7.6 cm) wider than the original hole so you can add more mulch and topsoil.^{[8]XResearch source}
- Call your utility companies before you dig and ask them to mark their lines to avoid hitting a gas, electrical, or water line.^{[9]XResearch source}
Plating your tree with the burlap wrapping intact can restrict oxygen to the roots. This, in turn, can cause girdling which will eventually kill the tree. To avoid this, completely remove the burlap wrapping before replanting your tree in the new hole.^{[10]XResearch source}
To avoid damaging the tree, do not drop it into the hole. Replanting is often traumatic for trees, and they need to be positioned gently into the hole. Lower it into the hole and adjust it so the trunk stays upright.^{[11]XResearch source}
Place your shovel handle on the ground and across the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the top of the hole. If the root ball is too deep into the ground, remove it and shovel some dirt back into the hole until the root ball is level.^{[12]XResearch source}
6
Fill the hole with topsoil. Your replanted tree will need plenty of organic matter and nutrients to adapt to its new location. Purchase topsoil, compost, or a blend of the two from a plant nursery. Shovel the topsoil in around the tree's roots until you fill the hole to the top.^{[13]XTrustworthy SourcePenn State ExtensionEducational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communitiesGo to source}
- Ask the topsoil seller if you can see its soil makeup—a loamy topsoil with an even mixture of sand, silt, and clay is ideal for replanting trees.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Caring for a Replanted Tree

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1
Add a 2–3 inches (5.1–7.6 cm) layer of mulch around the base of the tree. Apply the mulch in a ring a few inches (centimeters) away from the trunk. This will help the tree retain moisture and moderate soil temperature around the plant.^{[14]XResearch source}
- Do not make the mulch ring any deeper than 3 inches (7.6 cm) to avoid suffocating the tree.
2
Water your tree immediately after you replant it. Once you've replanted your tree, keep the soil moist by watering it afterward. Using a garden hose with a steady stream, water the tree for about 30 seconds at a time. Continue watering your tree 1-2 times a week, each time with 30-second soakings.^{[15]XResearch source}
- To avoid root rot, the tree's soil should be damp but not soggy.
- Water your tree twice a week during the summer or in hot climates.^{[16]XResearch source}
3
Stake your tree to the ground in windy climates. To prevent your tree from falling over while it's still taking root, stabilize it with stakes. Tie 2-3 stakes to your tree's trunk with elastic or tree straps and strike them into the ground using a hammer or mallet.^{[17]XResearch source}
- Inspect the stakes regularly for damage. If the stakes appear broken, replace them.
Do not significantly prune the tree for a year. After replanting the tree, prune it only to remove dead or broken branches. If you want to remove large limbs or alter the tree's shape, wait at least a year.^{[18]XResearch source}
Fertilization is not recommended for newly transplanted trees because it is ineffective until your tree's roots reestablish. Wait at least 2 years before applying fertilizer—until then, stick to mulching and routine watering.^{[19]XResearch source}

Expert Q&A

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Question
When should I plant a small Japanese maple?
Lauren Kurtz
Professional Gardener
Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014.
Lauren Kurtz
Professional Gardener
Expert Answer
You should plant in the late winter or early spring, as long as the soil is not frozen. Planting in the spring will give your tree an entire growing season to establish roots before the harshness of winter. Avoid transplanting in the heat of the summer. Fall planting can be successful if you live in an area with mild winters.
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Should I cut a tree back after transplanting in spring?
Lauren Kurtz
Professional Gardener
Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014.
Lauren Kurtz
Professional Gardener
Expert Answer
No, you should wait at least 2 seasons to prune a newly transplanted tree.
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How do I replant a tree that is 12 feet tall?
Community Answer
In most trees the root system is half as wide as the tree's height, but as long as you manage to get the tree up without damaging the roots, you can simply relocate it.
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Tips

Trees can take up to 3 years to recover from the trauma replanting causes. Maintain good care of your tree for the 3 years following replanting to keep the tree from going into shock.^{[20]XResearch source}
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Warnings

If your tree is severely diseased or damaged, it is less likely to survive replanting. You may want to replace your tree instead if it's in critical condition.
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