Question
Hi,

I start a red maple from a seedling. It is now about 3 ft tall and has been in it's current location for 2 years. We would like to move it to a place that has opened up with more space. The man that cuts the lawn says the root system has spread too much to touch it. I think he really didn't want to do the work. The place we want to move it will give it much more room to grow ultimately making it a healthier tree I would think. Please advise.

Thank you for your time.

Answer
Cathy,
It is possible to move the tree, but I would recommend waiting until the fall (Sept.- Oct.). Transplanting at this time of the year will reduce the transplant shock that the tree will go through. It will also give it 2 seasons to reestablish a strong root system before the summer heat stresses it more. If you do not want to wait for the Fall, You can move it now, just make sure that you are watering it regularly through the heat of the summer and be prepared for some die back.
When you do decide to move it, make sure that you dig a large enough root ball.
Give the tree a shot of fertilizer about 2-3 weeks before you dig it to help strengthen it.
I wish you luck.
Ed Gulliksen