Question
We are moving and would like to move our tree with us. It is approximately 4ft tall.  Would it damage this tree to be kept in a planter/pot? If not, how long could it safely stay in a pot and what size would I need?

Answer
This time of the year is the worst time to move a tree--due to the heat and the dry weather.  Evergreens should be moved earlier in the fall than deciduous plants so they have time to form new roots. They need at least 6 weeks before the ground freezes.

When you want to dig up a tree or shrub for transplanting, retain as much of the root system as possible.  Evergreens, can be successfully moved only if a ball of soil is left around the roots.

The soil ball should be:

Width = 9-12 in. in diameter/every 1 in. of tree diameter
Depth = 6 in./every 1 in. of tree diameter

For example: A tree trunk 2 inches wide would need a soil ball of 18-24 inches wide and 12 inches deep.

I am not a fan of trees in pots but I do understand your situation. I would use a pot that is twice the size of the rootball and as deep or deeper. Fill with potting soil or good top soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet. I would plant the tree in the ground as soon as it starts getting a little cooler maybe just as the hardwood leave start to turn in the Fall. When you move the tree you will need to protect it from the wind if you use an open truck. Put a trap over the tree loosely and not keep it covered for too long so it will not over heat.


When you do plant it in the ground dig the hole twice the size of the rootball and as deep and fill with top soil or potting soil as in the pot. Mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch not piled up on the trunk. This will help hold the moisture around the roots. Water with 1 inch of water every third day for a month then once a week--place a pan under the tree and turn the sprinkler on and when the pan has 1 inch of water in it stop.

I hope you have Good luck.