Transplanting a Very Old Pear Tree: Possible But Heavy

Can you transplant a huge, old pear tree? Yes, with a tree spade.

Requirements

• Root ball: 9–12″ wide per inch trunk diameter; 6″ deep per inch.
• Example: 20″ trunk → 180–240″ wide, 120″ deep ball. Massive.
• Best time: fall (after leaf color) or early spring (before bud break).
• Protect roots with wet burlap; prep new hole first (2× ball size).

Practicality

• Need Vermeer tree spade (or similar). Cost may exceed tree value.
• Old fruit trees often have decay, poor structure—may not be worth it.
• Consider propagating via cuttings/grafting instead.

Resource

Tree spade dealers: Vermeer

Bottom Line

Technically possible with big equipment, but rarely cost-effective for old pears. Propagate instead.