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Maple Challenge
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Posted by sebd VIC Aust (My Page) on Wed, Oct 26, 05 at 21:41
| What preparation would be required to move a 30 year old Japanese weeping maple which is 8ft high & 8ft wide? The move will occur in Winter but we need advice on size of root ball or other preparations/ precautions. Has anyone tackled such a project? What are the best methods to employ? What are the chances of success given the age of the tree? Thanks for any advice. |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: Maple Challenge
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I think you would have a very good chance of success. Trench the roots around the drip line in early Autumn, and water it well, then trench the roots again closer in to the tree a few weeks later. Gradually dig your trench deeper, watering well each time, so that the roots form a good ball close in to the tree. When it comes time to shift it, try and dig as large a ball of roots under the tree as you can, tipping the tree gradually as you cut, until you can feed a strong tarp under the tree and secure it round the ball of roots. The you should be able to lift it, or drag it using ropes attached around the tarp. Make sure the new position is well prepared, deeply dug and with good drainage.
Many much larger deciduous trees are moved in this way, very successfully. Mature trees were relocated to the Sydney olympic site for landscaping. |
RE: Maple Challenge
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- Posted by deejaus Melb.Vic. Aust (My Page) on
Thu, Oct 27, 05 at 20:06
I have to agree with Sparaxis 100%. The only thing I might add is to water it in well with Seasol when it is in it's new home. It helps encourage root growth. Also do NOT let it dry out (keep moist, not wet) until it is established.
Cheers,
Dee. |
RE: Maple Challenge
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| We have moved a few large trees - the thing you have to be supe carful of is not to damage the bark of the tree when you lift it. Don't use a chain wrapped around the trunk, even with a rag or something underneath, as you will end up crushing the bark and the tree will die or be severely damaged. Use the wide straps made of woven nylon (or similar) and be very careful! Also, plant it so that it is facing the same way it was originally - mark north on the trunk and make sure it is facing north when you re-plant it - they seem to recover far more quickly than if you plant them facing a different direction. |
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