Moving A Sapling To A New Location
If you have a sapling growing on your property, and you feel it is better to relocate it to a new area from where it is currently situated, you are likely concerned about the risks involved regarding the plant's life during this process. Since trees are prone to shock due to a move, there are some key points to keep in mind during the tree transplant process.
Select The Right Time For The Move
If you attempt to relocate a sapling at the wrong time of the year, it is more apt to fall victim to needless harm. The best time to move a tree of any size is when it is completely dormant. Trees become dormant during the coldest part of the year. Because of this, it is wise to research the type of sapling you need to be moved to determine when is the safest time for its relocation. Keep a close watch on the temperature in your area and read up on weather forecast as well to ensure the proper timeline for a successful move of the plant.
Get The Relocation Area Ready Beforehand
Before you move a sapling to a new location, it is important that the spot you have selected is primed for the event. If you dig your tree out of its old location without having the new spot ready, the chance of shocking the plant becomes more likely. When you find a spot that will work well for your tree's new home, dig a large hole, several feet deep and wide. Keep all the soil handy as it \will need to be placed around the base of the sapling after it is positioned in the hole. Fill the hole with water before the move, and cover the hole with a tarp to help keep the water from freezing if weather conditions could cause this to happen. Wait until the next day for the move so the water has enough time to saturate the ground.
Move the Sapling As Fast As Possible
Time is of the essence when you relocate a sapling. The less time its roots are exposed to the elements, the better. After you dig around your sapling's trunk and remove the tree from the ground, wrap the roots in a piece of a damp cloth. This helps to protect them from drying out. If you need to move the tree via vehicle to a new location, keep the cloth in place the entire time. Remove the cloth before placing the sapling into the hole you had dug the day before.