Question
Hi, I wasn't sure out of the list who to ask.  But here is my question.  I live in Texas, I planted two oak trees to close to our fence.  the tree trunk is probably about 20 inches around.  I was wanting to take them out by the root and replanting them more centered in our yard, as you figure most of the shade from those trees are mostly everywhere else but ours.  Please let me know if it is a wise decision to replant them, even if we have to get a professional to do it.

Thanks

Answer
They are on the big side of tree-moving...I calculate that they are a little over 6-1/2'' in diameter.  If you have access into your backyard for a truck to get in there, a professional tree mover can possibly "spade" them out with a special piece of equipment designed to move such a large tree.

Some tree spade particulars:
http://hflp.sdstate.edu/exex6021.htm

Do a google search on "tree spade" if you want to see what the machine looks like.

You'll also want to do it when they are dormant (fall/winter).  You may have to tear apart a portion of the fence to get access for the equipment and root ball to spade them out, too.

Talk to a local tree person - you may have other determining factors to consider, like location of exisitng utilities (bot under-ground and above-ground).  

It may not be worth the cost to just plant 2 new oak trees where they'll have enough room to grow ($500+ per tree to move, versus a large new tree for $200 or so).

~Marc