Transplanting 9-Year-Old White Pines: Delaware Timing and Technique

Moving 15 white pines (12–15 ft, 9 years old) in Sussex County, DE for privacy screen.

Optimal Timing

• Best: Early fall (6+ weeks before freeze)
• DE alternative: Early spring (March)
• Not now (summer)

Root Ball Requirements

• Width: 9–12" per 1" trunk diameter
• Depth: 6" per 1" diameter
• Example: 2" trunk = 18–24" wide, 12" deep
• Heavy—mechanical tree spade strongly advised

Aftercare

• Pre-dig holes 2× ball width
• Burlap + twine for transport
• Mulch 3", water 1" weekly (pan method)
• No fertilizer year 1

Survival Reality

Large transplant survival moderate even with spade. Smaller nursery-grown trees (5–6 ft) establish faster, survive better, and catch up quickly. Consider purchasing new stock instead.

Pest Note

Bagworms manageable on healthy trees; treat if needed.