Moving a full-grown oak tree is no small feat—honestly, once they’re established, those massive root systems make it nearly impossible to dig them up without causing serious damage. However, if you’ve got a young oak that needs a new home, you’re in luck! With a little care, you can successfully relocate it. Here’s my guide on how to get the job done right.
What to Keep in Mind Before You Dig
The secret to a successful transplant is keeping those oak roots as intact as possible. Timing is also everything. You want to give your tree plenty of time to settle in before the heat of summer hits, so I always recommend transplanting in the fall. This allows the tree to focus all its energy on establishing roots during the dormant winter months.
Here’s your step-by-step game plan:
- Dig a new planting hole that’s about twice as wide as the root ball.
- Carefully dig up the oak, giving the trunk plenty of clearance to avoid slicing through major roots.
- Place the tree right in the center of your new hole.
- Mix some high-quality compost or humus into the soil you dug out.
- Fill the hole back up and gently tamp down the soil with your foot to remove air pockets.
- Give your oak a long, deep drink of water at its new spot.
Prepping for Success
If you want to give your tree an extra boost, there are a few pro tips to keep in mind. Before planting, try soaking the root ball in a bucket of water for about a day. This ensures the oak’s roots are fully hydrated, giving it a much better head start during those first few critical weeks in the ground.
When you’re ready to plant, make sure the soil in the hole is nice and loose, and don’t forget to mix in that compost. If you’re worried about the area staying too soggy, you can add a drainage layer at the bottom of the hole to prevent root rot. Taking the time to pick the perfect location doesn’t just help your tree grow faster—it’s also the best way to prevent future tree diseases. Happy planting!