Question
Seeking advice regarding possibility of transplantation of very mature Bradford Pear tree (44" trunk circumference; 30ft height). Tree is starting early budding now. New construction on empty lot requires clearance of this beautiful tree.  Advise regarding possibility of tree survival and is it worth our money and effort?  (Would have acted sooner but became aware of construction only two weeks ago.)

Answer
I would not recommend moving a tree this large especially a Bradford. It suffers from severe branch splitting, especially in older trees (15+ years). The narrow branching angles cause trees to split in half, especially when subjected to ice and storm conditions. Pruning to correct this problem is difficult, but attempts to improve branch angles and structure should be done in winter or early spring, before growth begins.

To move a tree this large you will need to dig a large root ball.
Older 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 4 inches wide would need a soil ball of 36-48 inches wide and 24 inches deep.
This size project will take a machine called a tree spade to dig and move this size tree.
I would consider buying a new tree and planting it instead of moving this one.


There are companies that can move a tree this size. here is a web link to a couple in Kansas I do Not know anything about these companies but they do have the equipment to handle a large tree.

http://www.treepatch.com/

http://www.tmstrees.com/

http://www.davey.com/home/local-arborist/kansas-city-kansas/services/large-tree-...