Posted by Jan on November 1, 2004

Q: Hello. I just moved to a home in Central Ohio. The previous homeowner planted a group of evergreens along the boundary of the property and some of them need to be moved since they were planted much too close together. They vary in species, as the larger trees have long needles which are lighter in color than the smaller trees which have shorter needles. The trees that need to be moved are anywhere between 4-12 feet tall. Can you give me some idea when the best time to attempt to move these would be and how far out I should be digging them? I'd like to spread them out around the entire yard for landscaping purposes and as a wind break and am trying to learn everything I can to try and avoid losing them in the transplant process.

A: I'm originally from Ohio so have a feel for what trees you may have there. I'm guessing that your evergreens are pines and spruces, probably not firs. Take a look at this site: www.enaturalist.org and this should help you decide if I'm right.

Evergreens can be transplanted in the spring and fall although I tend to prefer the spring. Evergreens do continue to transpire (lose water through their needles) in the winter so they can dry out in freezing winter weather if not properly cared for. I think you'd be wise to wait until spring and then transplant, especially now that it's so late with freezing weather soon to arrive.

As with most plants in transplantation, getting a large root ball is best. There are sprays that can be applied to the foliage that will reduce transpiration for evergreens and this can help them get started after moving - ask your local nursery about using this. Good luck.

John Wiessinger ( November 5, 2004)