Plant Doctor Archive

Moving a maple

Question WE have a bronze weeping maple tree in our front garden. It is about 20 years old. Can you tell us how and when we can move it to another more favourable position?

Answer YES, it can be moved in winter when it is dormant. In April/May, dig around the dripline of the tree to a spade depth. This will stimulate new roots. In June/July dig the tree out of the ground and move it to its new position. Make sure the root ball is kept intact as much as possible. Wet sacks can be wrapped around the root ball to keep them moist.

Dig in generous amounts of compost, peat or well-rotted organic material to the new planting hole. Add a controlled release fertiliser such as Osmocote or Magamp at the recommended rate.

Make sure the planting hole is wider and slightly deeper than the tree’s original root ball.

Maples like a very sheltered position away from prevailing winds, and a cool, moist well-drained soil.

Staking may be required until the tree becomes established.

Let nature do the watering over winter. When the tree comes into leaf, keep the watering up — regular deep watering is preferable to several light sprinklings. Mulching with straw, peat, bark, compost, or well-rotted lawn clippings will keep the soil cool and moist and help the tree re-establish quickly.