Question
I would like to move a Peach tree that had one bloom (that fell off). I live in Southeastern Oklahoma. When would be the best time of year do do this? It is about 4 feet tall.

Answer
Generally, Do not transplant any plant that is in bloom or trying to produce fruit. Wait until after the plant has finished its reproduction cycle and even then wait another month. In areas that don't have seasonal changes, this is recommended. In areas that have cool winters, anytime when the tree is dormant. If the tree has new buds on it, you're too late and its best to wait till next year. The reason for this is a plant expends all of its energy to reproduce. That is its number one priority. If you disturb it during this time, it may not have enough energy to recover and you can kill the plant.

But since you said it did not have any flowers (one) it would be ok to transplant it now if you make sure it gets water and you dig enough root system. The very best time is during a dormant season when the tree has no leaves. but if you can not wait now is ok.

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.


When you dig the new hole make it twice the size of the rootball and as deep. Fill the excess with good top soil or potting soil. Mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch and water every third day with 1 inch of water (place a pan under the tree and turn the sprinkler on and when the pan has 1 inch of water in it stop). Water this way (if it does not rain) for a couple of months then once a week for the season.