Have you been wanting to move a small tree or shrub from its present location to a better spot in your garden. Now is a good time, during the cooling days of fall, while the soil is still warm enough for good root growth.

I'm often asked how large a tree or shrub may be successfully dug up and moved. While you may not be willing to spend the amount of money necessary, you can actually have a fully grown landscape tree dug up and successfully transplanted. However, for most gardeners interested in do-it-yourself projects, it's only practical to move relatively small or young plants.

Before you begin digging, make sure the plant is well watered. Moist soil holds together better, and the plant will stand the move better if its tissues are full of water. When digging up any plant, avoid injuring as many roots as possible. Loss of roots is the main reason why plants die after being transplanted. Begin digging from the outer edge of the branches (drip line), and carefully work toward the trunk until you find the main roots. Dig the soil from around the roots, but don't completely expose them. If you must cut some large roots (1/2 inch in diameter or greater), use sharp pruning shears or a sharp pruning saw. Do not simply chop large roots with a shovel, as this leaves jagged wounds that close slowly. Any extra soil around the root ball will help to retain the fine roots which absorb moisture from the soil. You can transplant deciduous trees and shrubs in fall, in winter after the plant's leaves have dropped or in the spring before buds begin to grow.