By Ed Poenicke
Coastal Senior

With the months of January and February approaching, now is the time for planning future projects in the yard.

These months are ideal for transplanting trees if a careful digging procedure is followed.

Let's assume the tree is one inch in diameter at ground level. The easier approach is not to get a soil ball, like nursery grown trees have, but to dig carefully to get as many of the small feeder roots as possible.

Begin digging 18 inches from the trunk with a shovel that has been sharpened. Dig toward the tree with a lifting motion to expose as many of the smaller roots as possible. Continue to dig downward and inward until you cut the tap roots, about 12 to 14 inches deep.

The tree should be planted immediately in the new location. If there is a delay in planting, firm the soil so as to eliminate air pockets, then mulch and water. Do not prune any of the limbs.

For larger diameter trees, the root ball should be two to three times the size of the one inch caliber tree (18 inches). Remember, big trees should be moved by professionals. They have the equipment and expertise to handle these larger root balls. You also might consider using a nurseryman to move smaller trees if you don't feel you can do the job.

After the tree is planted, survival depends upon weekly applications of water during dry periods of the first two growing seasons. You also might consider using a gator bag around the base of the tree. They're easy to fill once a week and apply water right on the root ball in a very slow application rate.

Support larger trees with two wooden stakes and soft cord for the first growing season. Don't secure the tree tightly. You want some movement by the tree. This will allow the tree roots to get accustomed to the tugging and pulling that comes from wind movement.

Be sure to add three inches of mulch as far as the prepared hole or even a foot further beyond the planting hole. The mulch will help conserve water, reduce weed growth and give a finished look to the project.

Mulch also keeps lawn mowers and weed eaters away from the trunk of the tree and reduces damage they can do.

Ed Poenicke is a retired Chatham County extension agent.