Is there a small tree in your yard that you’d like to move to a new location? If so, it’s a job you can do yourself. The best time to move a tree is early spring or fall. With some basic lawn and garden equipment, the process is simple. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Move a Small Tree

1. Dig It Up

The best time to dig up a tree is when the soil is slightly damp. If your soil isn’t damp, thoroughly water it, and wait three days. Gather needed lawn and garden equipment—a shovel, spade, garden gloves, twine, and burlap.

The root ball of the tree should be eight to 12 inches in diameter for every inch of tree trunk thickness. For example, if your tree has a two-inch trunk, your root ball should be 16 to 24 inches wide. Dig a trench around the tree as wide as your desired root ball diameter. Then, dig down one to two feet into the soil.

2. Form the Root Ball

Once you’ve dug down into the soil, cut under the roots, rounding up the earth. As your tree loosens, tilt it and wrap burlap around the dirt and roots, forming a root ball. Tie the top of the burlap covering with twine or string.

3. Replant It

Use a wheelbarrow to move your tree to its new location. Dig a hole two-to-three times as wide and as deep as the root ball, less one inch. Position your tree into the new hole. Using your hands, pack dirt around the tree. Once you’ve filled the hole two-thirds of the way with soil, remove the string from the burlap and cut the exposed burlap from the root ball. Continue to fill the hole, and water thoroughly. 

For the first two weeks, water your tree every one to two days. After two weeks, gradually reduce the amount of watering.

If you’re working on an outdoor project, you can count on Wilson Brothers Rental & Sales for all your lawn and garden equipment needs. Serving Lexington, KY, they’ve been in business for over 30 years, renting and selling landscaping equipment and power tools to homeowners and construction contractors. Check out their website for more information about the equipment they carry, or call them at (859) 276-3601 to inquire about your rental needs.