Question
It is mid September and we are making some changes in my parents back yard.  In the center are two young oaks that will need to be transplanted.  Is it ok to do that at this time of year?  I read one of your responses on size of root ball and depth so I know those answers,,,I just need to know about the time of year and likelihood of successful transplanting now.

Answer
Depending on where you are in the US the time could be close that would be ok. It is best to wait until the leaves of the native oaks have dropped. This will mean the trees are dormant. As soon as they begin to turn for the Fall will be ok if you can not wait. Remember that the roots will need moisture even though the trees are bare some check the soil around the trees every so often and if the soil is dry down a couple of inches then I would water the trees. Mulch around the trees with not more than 3 inches of organic mulch not piled up on the trunk will help hold moisture around the roots.