Transplanting a 20-Foot White Pine: Timing, Root Ball, and Equipment

Best Timing

• Fall: At least 6 weeks before ground freezes (earlier than deciduous trees).
• Spring: Up to 4 weeks after deciduous trees leaf out, with diligent watering.

Root Ball Requirements

Trunk diameter? Measure at 6″ above ground.

• Ball width: 9–12″ per inch trunk diameter.
• Ball depth: 6″ per inch trunk diameter.
• Example: 4″ trunk → 36–48″ wide, 24″ deep ball. Very heavy.

Procedure

1. Prepare new hole first (twice ball width, same depth).
2. Dig ball, wrap securely in burlap.
3. Move with machinery (skid steer, tree spade).
4. Set at same depth, backfill, mulch 3″, water thoroughly.

Equipment Option

Tree spades (e.g., Vermeer) can dig and move large trees intact. Locate dealers at Vermeer.

Feasibility

For a 20-ft white pine, professional equipment is strongly recommended. DIY risks tree death and injury.