Elm 4 ft from House: Move It Before Roots & Branches Cause Damage

10-yr elm (20 ft, 1 ft trunk) 4 ft from house. Roots & branches will cause problems.

Why Move

• Elm spread 30–40 ft → roots 45–60 ft.
• 4 ft is far too close.
• Branches will rub house first.

Transplant Procedure (Deciduous)

• Fall after leaf drop (or spring before bud break).
• Root ball: 9–12″ wide per inch trunk diameter, 6″ deep per inch.
• 2″ trunk → 18–24″ wide, 12″ deep.
• Pre-dig hole 2× ball; wrap ball in burlap; plant at grade; mulch 3″.

Move now—delay increases risk and difficulty.