Douglas L. Airhart & Guy Zimmerman III
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Transplanting Trees- Time of Year: Determining the correct time of year to plant trees can be confusing, mostly because trees are sold with three different forms of root masses (see selecting trees section). In general, the best time for planting is during the fall and early winter months. During this time the trees are dormant or resting and the weather is cool and moist, which reduces the chance for water and temperature stresses. Watson & Himelick (2000) actually lists specific trees that respond better if transplanted in the spring (see table). B&B trees can be transplanted in the fall, winter or spring because root growth occurs mainly in two seasons, fall and early spring. The trees should be dormant because they have suffered severe (up to 85%) root loss while being dug and wrapped in burlap. They will use energy stored in the trunk and roots to support new root growth. If planting after winter, don’t wait too long because trees need adequate time to develop enough roots to supply moisture to the spring growth of leaves and stems. When selecting these trees, be cautious if you notice that fresh roots are growing out of the burlap. This indicates that the trees have been in storage for a long time. Although new roots may exist within the ball, those roots outside the burlap will be destroyed when removing the burlap to transplant the trees. Containerized trees are becoming more popular in the nursery industry. They are easier to handle and store than B&B trees because they weigh less and are not as prone to damage of the root mass. It is assumed that they can be transplanted at any time of year because the root mass is extensive in the container and the roots will suffer very little damage in transplanting. Although generally true, you still must give serious consideration to root zone moisture during dry months because the plants are not dormant and leaves will be actively growing and losing water through transpiration. Containerized production usually uses an artificial mix without soil that can dry out rapidly. Be sure the root mass has been thoroughly watered before transplanting and keep adequate moisture levels during establishment. Bare-root trees will be available from late winter to early spring, and must be dormant during storage, transit and transplanting. The roots may be misted in storage to prevent drying, or the roots may be bagged in plastic or mesh bags with moist sawdust or wood chips to prevent drying. Be sure to shake or brush off as much sawdust as possible before transplanting and do not mix the sawdust or wood chips into the hole. The sawdust or wood chips can be added to any surface mulch you may use. | ... |
Purpose Right Tree / Right Place Selecting Trees Transplanting Trees Mulching & Staking Summary Diagram Pruning Trees Topping Hurts! Protecting Trees Tree Root Myths Pine Bark Beetles Live Christmas Trees Glossary List of Figures List of Video Vignettes Related Links Bibliography
TLCforTrees.info is maintained by: Douglas Airhart, Ph.D. Certified Arborist & Jeff Plant, Ph.D, Last Updated on: 07/11/03 |
