QuestionWe have a 12ft tall river birch tree that we want to move ourselves its starting to grow into some power line overhead, can my wife and I do this??
AnswerYes but it may be a large job and some what heavy. Spring would be the best time, just before the ;eaves bud out. ..
Although all trees and shrubs can be moved in either spring or fall, there are some which establish themselves better when moved in the spring, such as the softwoods (willows, poplars, birches).
Digging the root ball:
When you want to dig up a tree for transplanting, retain as much of the root system as possible. Deciduous trees can be successfully moved only if a ball of soil is left around the roots. The exposed roots should be protected with moist burlap or newspaper or with polyethylene sheeting. Every effort should be made to reduce root exposure to wind and sun, keeping the ball as moist as possible. It's best to prepare the hole before digging up the tree you wish to move.
Size of the root ball and size of the hole:
For deciduous trees and shrubs 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 in diameter would need a soil ball of 18-24 inches wide and 12 inches deep. This will fairly heavy but if it is not a long distance you can put it on a tarp and drag it to the new location. OR lift it and put into a wheel barrow and move.
The new hole should be twice the size of the root ball and as deep. Fill the hole with good top soil and mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches of mulch and water.
