Transplanted
Transplanting a tree can be quite the process when we are talking about a large, older tree. If is not done correctly, even a small tree will suffer through the process.
I worked for a nursery in 1999-2000 that specialized in planting landscapes that looked as though they had been there for years, even decades. This meant the sale and transplanting of some very big trees.
A tree will not survive without sufficient roots to support the entire system. As a general rule, 10-12 inches of root mass must be present in order to have a successful tree. This is achieved one of two ways. Dig the tree using a root spade or dig the tree by hand, and drum lace the roots with burlap to hold the soil in place around the roots, for transporting and planting. This is a long and involved process that truly looks like a work of art.
This past couple of months I have been in a transplanting process of my own. I have relocated from a tiny cottage in a back yard lot, to a wonderful home and office space, resting nicely in the midst of a 3 acre farm.
It has been a wonderful move, with endless possibilities… and it is its own artistic process. I now get to unleash my inner designer in furnishing and styling rooms, selecting art, and letting loose on the inside of the house for some exciting new features. I am enjoying rooms that are limited only by my imagination and the satisfaction of sitting in a space that looks very much like I imagined it.
There is a pond, a year round creek, springs, gardens and so many potential landscape gardening opportunities that I hardly know where to begin.
I think I will start by planting tulips, for now.
The thing about transplanting trees, is not only the long process to bring them to a ready state for the big move, but the process of establishing them in the new location. Soils may be different, micro climates need to be taken in to consideration, not to mention that even under the best conditions there is usually a great deal of root mass lost, as roots extend so far beyond the canopy.
It CAN be done, and done quite successfully… it is done every day.
There are however, far too many trees, usually those purchased at a nursery and planted by a landscaper, that are planted too deep, or not watered correctly, or left to die with the stake tied to them.
Proper planting or replanting is a must if a tree is to have a long and healthy life.
I hope to have a long and healthy life. I forgot to mention that during this move I also saw the doctor and had a birthday. At 63 years old my prospects look pretty good. I am once again, being relocated and beginning a new chapter of life in a new landscape. I am excited by the prognosis, and I am taking my time to understand all the moving parts, adapting to the new space and learning what opportunities this little farm has to offer. I am putting down roots, and reestablishing for myself, my team, and my brand to grow, and to share the process with you.
Thank you so much for following along with this gardener thus far, stay tuned and be surprised along with me, as I put down roots and grow.
WEEKLY VIDEO:
What are the steps to proper tree planting? How deep should you plant a tree? Should you move the tree by its trunk? What is the crown flair? James answers these questions and more. Know before you grow…and save yourself a lot of time and money!