Tree Relocation
Preserving Trees Through Skilled RelocationA Second Life for Valuable Trees
Tree relocation is an expert-led process that allows trees to be moved from one site to another — avoiding unnecessary felling and preserving the aesthetic, ecological, or heritage value of mature specimens. Whether responding to planning requirements or redesigning landscapes, this service offers a sustainable solution for integrating trees into evolving environments without loss of natural capital.
Relocate, Not Remove: How We Move Trees Safely
Relocating a tree demands precision, planning, and specialist care. We begin with a thorough arboricultural assessment to evaluate the tree’s suitability for transplanting, based on factors such as species, age, root structure, and health.
For larger or older trees, we may carry out root preparation months in advance to improve transplant success. Using tree spades or hydraulic lifting equipment, we then carefully excavate and preserve the root ball before securely transporting the tree to its new home.
Site preparation is tailored to the tree’s needs, including pit size, soil amendments, and anchoring systems to stabilise the root ball. Once replanted, we provide intensive aftercare — from watering and mulching to monitoring — to ensure healthy re-establishment over time.
Tree relocation is often a preferred solution where trees are of high ecological, cultural, or planning value, offering a practical alternative to felling and supporting long-term landscape sustainability.
Key Steps in Tree Relocation:
1. Tree Assessment: Prior to relocation, an arboricultural assessment is carried out to determine the tree’s species, size, age, health, and transplantability. Younger, healthy trees with well-structured root systems are generally more suitable for relocation.
2. Root Preparation (for advanced planning): If time allows, root pruning may be carried out 6–12 months in advance to stimulate the development of a more compact root ball, improving transplant survival.
3. Excavation and Lifting: Using mechanical tree spades or hydraulic lifting equipment, a defined root ball is carefully excavated, preserving as much of the root system as possible. The tree is then securely lifted and transported to the new location.
4. Site Preparation and Planting: The receiving site is prepared with a suitable pit size, soil conditioning (e.g., compost, biochar), and drainage if necessary. The tree is replanted at the same depth it was previously growing and is anchored with underground guying systems or staking.
5. Aftercare: Intensive aftercare is critical and includes regular watering, mulching, monitoring for stress or disease, and replacement of failed supports. Maintenance may be required for up to 3 years or more, depending on tree size and environmental conditions.
Tree relocation can be a viable alternative to felling, particularly for high-value or protected specimens, and contributes to tree conservation in urban or estate landscapes when implemented by experienced arboricultural professionals.
Get in Touch
Please get in touch to arrange a site visit and a member of our team will come out to your site to assess the works that you require.
T: 01420 579071
E: [email protected]
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