QuestionI need to move a lilac tree now or else it will be moved and ruined this summer. is it still a good time to move the tree? i am in Queens NY, i just looked at it and can see some buds on it already- It is about 5 years old, and has never flowered yet. thinking this may be the first year it flowers.
AnswerEarly spring until late spring, from when the lilacs develop buds until they actually have small leaves, is the best time to transplant.
When you want to dig up a tree or shrub 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 wide would need a soil ball of 18-24 inches wide and 12 inches deep.
Dig the new hole twice the size of the rootball and as deep and fill with good top soil or potting soil. Mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch not piled up on the trunk.
