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Transplanting a Lilac in Early Spring

A 5-year-old lilac in Queens, NY, with visible buds needs moving before summer construction. Early spring (bud stage to small leaves) is ideal. Dig a root ball 9–12 inches wide and 6 inches deep per inch of trunk diameter. Protect roots with moist burlap. Prepare new hole twice the ball size, backfill with good soil, mulch 3 inches. Water weekly (1 inch) unless rain. The tree may bloom this year if moved carefully.

Transplant Checklist

Move in early spring before full leaf-out.
Preserve maximum root ball.
Water consistently after planting.

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