If you want to transplant a young tree to another part of your yard, you need to make sure you do it properly. If you do not, you may shock the tree and it would not root well and could possibly die. Below are some symptoms of tree shock, what causes it, and how you can avoid it.

Symptoms of Tree Transplant Shock

Leaf scorch is one symptom of transplant shock. If your tree has this, you will notice the leaves turning yellow along the margins or between the veins. The colored areas then dry out and turn brown. Another symptom that is common is wilting or curling leaves. If the problem is not alleviated, the leaves will die followed by limb die back, and the tree will have slow growth.

Causes of Tree Transplant Shock

Transplant shock is due to damage to the roots. The roots may have been damaged when you uprooted the tree, or the roots may have dried out before you replanted the tree. Another cause of transplant shock is placing the tree in a hole that is too small, as the roots would be too crowded. The hole should be approximately the same width and depth of the hole the tree was removed from.

Not giving the newly transplanted tree enough water can also cause shock. You should water deeply right after transplant making sure the water gets down to the roots, and then water the tree frequently so it does not dry out. This helps the roots get established in their new home.

Avoid Tree Transplant Shock

Make sure the soil is well prepared. You can use a tiller to loosen it up, if needed. It should have a crumbly texture before you plant the tree.

Try not to cut the roots when you dig up the tree. Roots store nutrients and carbohydrates, which the tree needs to be healthy. When you finish planting, do not stomp on the soil around your tree. This will cause the soil to become compacted, which makes it more difficult to water.  Unless you are transplanting the tree in the summer, do not put mulch around it, as this keeps the soil too wet and cold. Once you see the tree is growing well, you can then put some mulch around it, if preferred.

As soon as you notice transplant shock symptoms with your tree, contact a tree service company. They can provide care to the tree to help it become healthy. The tree service company can also transplant your tree for you if you do not feel you can do it on your own without damaging it. Contact a business, such as Able Scape, Inc, for more information.   

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