Question
4 years ago, I planted apple seeds. Today, my apple tree is about 1.8 m (6 ft.) tall and I realize that it’s too close to the fence. Can I move it? If so, at what time of year and how do I go about it?
Answer
Of course you can transplant your apple tree, especially as it’s still young so the work will be relatively easy. You can do it in spring or autumn. To do this, dig around the tree with a sharp shovel so that you can pull it out of the ground. The larger the root ball, the easier it will be to recover, but you should also bear in mind that a large root ball will be difficult to move. A root ball 75 cm (30″) wide and 45 cm (18″) deep should be sufficient.
At the desired location, dig a hole the same depth as the root ball and about 2 to 3 times wider than the root ball to facilitate handling. It is not necessary or even desirable to improve the soil in the hole by adding peat, compost or fertilizer. Instead, apply a spoonful or two of tree mycorrhizae (available from nurseries) to the roots to ensure a good start. Center the tree in its hole, fill half the hole with the soil removed, pack well and fill with water.
When all the water has been absorbed, finish filling the hole, compact and water well again. If you judge the soil to be poor, apply a slow-release organic fertilizer and compost to the entire area, well beyond the root ball. Finish with a good 7-10 cm (3″ to 4″) layer of decomposable mulch.
A stake may be necessary. If so, opt for 2 or 3 stakes placed beyond the root zone and secure the tree to them with flat straps, but not too tightly. To recover from transplanting, the tree needs to be able to move around a little.
Watering
Until the ground freezes (i.e. all summer if you’re transplanting in spring), water moderately if there’s no rain. In other words, when the soil is dry to the touch (but never if it’s still wet), water well and for several minutes, so that the water reaches the entire root system.
Finally, remove the stakes around 12 months after their initial installation.
Larry Hodgson published thousands of articles and 65 books over the course of his career, in both French and English. His son, Mathieu, has made it his mission to make his father’s writings accessible to the public. This text was originally published in Le Soleil newspaper.
Although accurate for Canada, it is important to know that if, transplanted in spring, such trees must be transplanted while still dormant. If blooming or has bloomed, transplant is VERY stressful! In mild climates, such trees should be transplanted while most dormant through winter.