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Moving shrubs from one area to
another can be tricky but once you have learnt the basic digging
techniques it should be fairly straightforward. Ensure you have
the correct tools for the job. Small shrubs and trees can be dug
up using a common garden spade. Larger shrubs and trees may
require manpower, machinery or the decision that it doesn't
really need moving after all! Move in late winter or early
spring.
The root ball size must be
calculated first. The shrub may be a certain size above soil
level but beneath it will be larger. Working out the size of a
root ball that you cannot see can seem complicated but once you
have done it a few times you will soon get the hang of it.
- For evergreen shrubs and trees
allow 1 foot of root ball for every 2 feet of height.
- For deciduous shrubs and trees
allow 1 foot of root ball for every inch of the trunks
diameter.
- Measure the diameter 6
inches above soil level using caliper if you have one.
- No caliper? Use string to get
a measurement, divide the number you get by pi (3.14) and
round up to the nearest inch.
- Always be generous with your
measurements because once the root has been cut there is no
going back!
Now you know the size of the hole
the shrub will need to go in you can start digging and preparing
it. It is much easier to do it now rather than have the shrub
sat next to you waiting to go in.
- Ensure the hole is the correct
size.
- Break up the soil at the
bottom and add some organic matter.
Now you are onto the moving
process, you may find it easier to work around the shrub if you
tie back the branches so they are not in your way.
- Using your spade draw a circle
around the shrub in the soil that is the size of the root
ball you have worked out it needs.
- Then draw another circle
around that one which is approx 1 foot larger.
- Dig the soil out between these
two circles to create your trench. Ensure you dig away from
the root so as not to damage it any.
- Do not worry if any roots
encroach on this area between your circles because the shrub
will have more than enough to survive on within the root
ball area.
- Roots can be cut through using
your spade, tougher ones may require long secateurs.
- Dig until your trench is
approx two thirds the width of the diameter you have.
- The roots underneath the shrub
must now be severed. It may be necessary to tip the shrub to
get a better view and grip.
- Once the shrub is free the
root ball must be covered for transportation. Hessian is
very good for this. Tie it on securely to protect the roots
and to keep in the soil.
- If the shrub is not being
transplanted immediately or has been dug up to be stored for
future use then untreated burlap is the best for this job.
Watered regularly a shrub will survive wrapped in burlap for
several weeks.
- Once the shrub is in its new
home cover the roots with soil, firm in and water
well.
- Water regularly until
established.
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