Transplanting a Weeping Cherry Tree

Q: I have a weeping cherry tree that was transplanted from the front of my house to the back yard 2 or 3 years ago. I would like to bring it back to the front and was wondering when would be a good time to move it or would it be wise not to do so?

Thank you.
Bee

A: Bee,

Transplanting trees always causes a certain amount of stress. To reduce the potential shock to your cherry tree, transplant it during dormant periods-usually late fall or winter. This is a time when root growth slows significantly or even stops, so shock from transplanting is significantly reduced. You can also transplant in early spring just as the buds are beginning to swell-a week or so before root growth resumes.

Transplanting trees is just like planting them. Measure the diameter of the tree's trunk and multiply that number by 18. That will give you the diameter of your root ball. Dig down (slanting slightly inward toward the trunk) to a depth of 12-24 inches. Remove the tree and place it into a pre-dug hole at a straight angle. As you fill in the hole, tamp the soil lightly and add water every so often to remove any air pockets around the roots. The fill should consist of 70% original soil and 30% high quality compost and garden/top soil combined. Leave up to 1/3 of the top of the root ball above ground, water well and mulch with 2 inches of wood chips or cocoa shells. Leave a 3-4 inch space between the mulch and the trunk.

Ellen Brown is our Green Living and Gardening Expert. Click here to ask Ellen a question! Ellen Brown is an environmental writer and photographer and the owner of Sustainable Media, an environmental media company that specializes in helping businesses and organizations promote eco-friendly products and services. Contact her on the web at http://www.sustainable-media.com