Transplanting Memorial Crabapples: Ground, Not Pots; Fall or Spring

**Do not pot them.** A 1.5-in. caliper tree needs a **large, heavy root ball**—pots restrict roots, freeze solid in NY winter, and are impossible to move.

Transplant In Ground (Best)

• **Timing:** **Now (fall, pre-freeze)** or **early spring (pre-bud break)**.
• **Root ball:** 9–12 in. wide per inch caliper = **14–18 in. diameter**; 6 in. deep per inch = **9 in. deep**.
• **Method:** Dig ball, wrap burlap+twine, move on tarp/ball cart.
• **New hole:** 2x ball width, same depth. Native backfill. Mulch 3 in.
• **Water:** 1 in./week first year.

If You Must Move Again Later

**Root prune** 6 months before next move (cut roots at future ball radius) to stimulate fibrous roots inside ball.

**These trees have sentimental value—give them the best chance: plant in ground properly.**