Question
I live in the Black Hills of South Dakota ( 6,000 feet in elevation).  
I have many pine trees, 2 feet to 6 feet in height, that need to be thinned.  I would like to move them instead of just culling and killing.  When is the best time to do this?  Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated.


Thanks in advance,
Dave

Answer
The time, which is generally successful, is late summer and early fall. Trees are beginning to slow their growth and become dormant at this time.

Most trees, and in particular evergreens, do well with late season transplanting in many East River and Black Hills locations. Do not move evergreens too late in the season, however. Transplanting in late October may result in winter burn and some branch dieback.

If the tree is selected properly and sufficient after-planting care is provided, many tree species can be moved during the summer. Avoid periods of active shoot growth, high temperatures, or drought, however.

When digging a plant to transplant it make sure you get enough roots.  The rule of thumb is for every 1" of trunk caliper you should have 12" of root ball.  The caliper of a tree is the diameter of the trunk approximately 6" off the ground.
 Carefully move the dirt that is around the roots with the tree. Dig the hole for the tree about twice the size of the rootball and fill with good top soil. Water and continue watering if it does not rain.
The success rate of moving pines from the woods is not too high so do not be discouraged if some of the trees do die.