Transplanting a Small Redbud: Pot vs. Direct Move

For a 1.5″ caliper, 4 ft redbud, wait and move directly to the permanent site—double transplanting loses more roots. Dig root ball: 14–18″ wide, 9″ deep. Move with burlap, plant immediately in 2× hole, mulch 3″, water 1″ every 3 days for a month. No fertilizer first year.

If delay is unavoidable, pot in a large container with potting mix, keep shaded and watered, but expect more shock.