Successful Relocation of Large Trees
Blog Post by Kerry Norman
The successful relocation of large trees is both a remarkable and difficult feat. There is definitely an art to it. Tree moving, which allows the addition of mature trees to landscaping projects, has become a popular practice to beautify or otherwise enhance large and small-scale developments.
I have been involved with and have observed many successful tree-moving projects where the relocated trees have contributed significantly to the community for several years now. Some people may, however, have a different opinion.
Tree Relocation Is a Complicated & Risky Prospect
I’ve worked with and read the reports of those who argue that tree relocation is generally a loosing proposition, typically resulting in tree failure. One of these field studies included trees that initially lacked vigor and vitality. Some had experienced heavy fire damage while boxed in the field and most suffered a lapse in care for a period of approximately one year. These circumstances clearly do not provide adequate grounds to arrive at a reasonable conclusion that tree relocation can be dismissed as a means of preserving heritage trees from condemnation due to development.
Although tree relocation is a complicated and risky prospect, it can usually be performed successfully. My experience is that if you start with a healthy tree, box it correctly and at the right time and provide adequate maintenance, you can expect a high rate of success.
There are only a handful of tree moving companies in the United States that are capable of moving large specimen trees with root balls in excess of 10 feet in diameter. I was the staff arborist for one of these companies for six years. During this time, I evaluated trees for their potential to survive relocation, and supervised their care before, during and after. I also made regular site inspections on many projects for up to five years following tree relocation to diagnose problems and to evaluate our tree moving procedures and maintenance practices.
Based on this experience, I will be discussing several topics significant to tree moving in various blog posts. Each of the posts concerning tree moving focuses primarily on the relocation of Quercus agrifolia. I have been involved with many tree relocation projects, both large and small, involving residential, commercial and golf course development and community redevelopment projects.
Conclusion
I have been involved with several projects that include the relocation of Quercus agrifolia in box sizes up to 18 feet. On many of these projects more than 10 years has elapsed since the trees were moved, and they have performed beautifully and continue to show vigor. In more recent years, with greater experience and industry innovations some trees seem to hardly miss a beat when relocated. I attribute these successes to proper selection, preparation, proper pruning, and adequate follow up maintenance.
Tree moving is a big investment and should not be taken lightly. Not only is the relocation process costly, but also long-term maintenance and monitoring must be factored into the budget. There are obviously risks involved with relocation and some trees are poor candidates. In my opinion, tree relocation should be considered as a last resort, it is always best when a tree can remain undisturbed. Tree moving has saved many trees to the benefit of countless communities. Landmark heritage and specimen trees can be spared when it is necessary to make way for development.
The following posts and opinions, therefore, is based on more than six years of observations and hands-on experience working with the relocation of mature trees.
Here are the posts concerning the topic of successful relocation of trees:
Defining a Good Candidate & Box Size
Fertilization, Supplements & Soils
* These posts were originally published as a full article in Western Arborist Magazine (June 2003). Click here to view the original article in its entirety.
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