Before you even think about putting a walnut tree in the ground, you really want to make sure you’ve picked the perfect spot. These guys need plenty of room to spread out, and honestly, they’d much rather stay put once they’re settled. But hey, life happens! If you realize your tree is in a bad spot or is quickly outgrowing its space, moving it might be your only option. Here’s the lowdown on how to transplant a walnut tree without losing your mind (or the tree).
Why You Might Need to Move Your Walnut Tree
In a perfect world, you’d never move a walnut tree. It’s a lot of back-breaking work for you and a huge shock for the tree. However, you might have to grab the shovel if:
- The growing conditions just aren’t right (not enough sun or poor drainage).
- The tree is getting way too big for its current corner of the yard.
Timing is Everything
If you’re going to move your walnut tree, you’ve got to get the timing right. The best time to do this is in late fall, right after the leaves have dropped. By waiting until the tree is dormant, you’re reducing the “shock factor.” Plus, it gives the tree all winter to get cozy in its new home before the spring growing season kicks in.
How to Transplant Your Walnut Tree
Ready to get your hands dirty? Follow these steps for a successful move:
- First things first: Dig the new hole at your chosen site. Make sure it’s plenty wide and deep.
- Give your tree a head start by mixing some mature compost into the soil you dug out. Loosen up the dirt at the bottom of the hole, too, so the roots can breathe.
- Now for the hard part: digging up the tree. Depending on how old and big it is, this can be a real workout.
- Try your absolute best to keep the root ball intact. You want to save as many roots as possible and avoid damaging them with your spade.
- Place the tree (and the soil clinging to its roots) into the new hole and fill it back up with your enriched soil mix.
- If the tree is a bit wobbly, drive a sturdy stake into the ground next to it and tie the trunk loosely for support.
- Give it a long, deep drink of water immediately. Keep up with regular watering over the next few weeks to help those roots latch onto their new home.
Moving Potted Walnut Trees
If you’re growing your walnut tree in a container or as a bonsai, you’ll need to repot it every so often with fresh soil. When you do, it’s a good idea to give the roots a little trim—this helps keep the tree’s size manageable so it doesn’t take over your patio!
