Transplanting a 25-ft Live Oak: Professional Equipment Required

A 25-ft live oak with a 28-inch circumference (~9-inch diameter) is **too large for DIY transplanting**. The required root ball (9–12 inches wide per inch of trunk diameter = 81–108 inches wide; 6 inches deep per inch = 54 inches deep) would weigh **several tons**.

Professional Solution: Tree Spade

• **Vermeer** or similar truck-mounted tree spades can dig, lift, and move trees this size.
• Dealer locator: vermeer.com
• Cost depends on tree size, move distance, site access.

If You Proceed (Professional Only)

1. **Timing:** Fall (after leaf drop) or early spring (before bud break).
2. **New hole:** 2x root ball width, same depth. Backfill with native soil (no amendment).
3. **Aftercare:** Mulch 3 inches (not on trunk), water 1 inch/week for first year.

Alternative

If the tree is 7 ft from the foundation, **root pruning** and **crown reduction** by a certified arborist may mitigate risk while keeping the tree in place. Consult an ISA Certified Arborist for a site-specific risk assessment.