Transplanting a 10-Foot Brandon Cedar: Timing, Root Ball Size, and Aftercare

Can You Move a 10-Foot Cedar Safely?

A homeowner wants to relocate a 10-foot Brandon cedar. Evergreens transplant best in early fall (6+ weeks before ground freeze) or spring (up to 4 weeks after deciduous trees leaf out).

Root Ball Dimensions

For evergreens, a soil ball is essential. General guideline:

• Ball width: 9–12 inches per inch of trunk diameter.
• Ball depth: 6 inches per inch of trunk diameter.

Example: A 2-inch trunk needs an 18–24 inch wide, 12-inch deep ball.

Weight Estimation

Weight (lbs) ≈ ball width (in) × ball depth (in) × 0.05. A 24″×12″ ball ≈ 14.5 lbs; a 48″×24″ ball ≈ 56 lbs.

Transplant Steps

1. Prepare new hole first: twice the root ball size.
2. Dig around tree, preserving as much soil on roots as possible.
3. Wrap ball in burlap; lace with twine if moving far.
4. Plant at same depth, backfill with good topsoil.
5. Mulch ≤3 inches; water thoroughly.

Aftercare

Water regularly for the first year. Do not fertilize until the second season.