Choose the right time, ideally during dormancy or cool weather
Water the tree thoroughly a day before transplanting
Select a new planting site with suitable sunlight, soil, and space
Dig the new hole before removing the tree
Make the new hole twice as wide as the root ball and no deeper than the root ball
Mark the tree’s north side if you want to preserve orientation
Prune only damaged or dead branches if needed
Dig around the tree in a wide circle to protect the roots
Keep as much of the root ball intact as possible
Lift the tree carefully from the root ball, not the trunk
Wrap the root ball in burlap or a tarp if needed
Move the tree to the new site as quickly as possible
Place the tree in the new hole at the same depth it was previously growing
Position the tree upright and centered in the hole
Backfill with the original soil, removing large air pockets
Water deeply after planting
Mulch around the base, keeping mulch away from the trunk
Stake the tree only if necessary
Water regularly during the first growing season
Monitor for transplant shock and adjust care as needed