Transplanting Mature Hollies in Summer: High Risk, Better to Wait

Why Summer Moving Is Dangerous

Active growth + root loss = severe transplant shock. Hollies moved in July in Massachusetts likely won't survive.

If You Must Move Now

• Pre-dig new holes.
• Dig largest manageable root balls.
• Use root stimulator (e.g., Tree Saver).
• Water daily for weeks.
• Expect significant dieback.

Best Practice

Wait until fall dormancy (October–November). Survival rate jumps from <20% to >80%.