Transplanting A Crepe Myrtle Tree (Expert Arborist Tips & Tools)

Transplanting a Crepe Myrtle Tree (Expert Arborist Tips & Tools)

The first time I saw a crepe myrtle in full bloom, I was driving through Savannah, Georgia. The vibrant pink blossoms against the backdrop of historic architecture took my breath away. It was a showstopper, a true testament to the beauty and resilience of this remarkable tree. Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of working with crepe myrtles in various landscapes, and I’ve learned a thing or two about their care, including the sometimes-necessary task of transplanting them.

Transplanting a crepe myrtle isn’t as simple as digging it up and sticking it somewhere else. It requires careful planning, the right tools, and a good understanding of the tree’s needs. Get it wrong, and you risk stressing the tree, hindering its growth, or even losing it altogether. But with the right approach, you can successfully move your crepe myrtle and enjoy its beauty for years to come.

Key Takeaways:

Timing is crucial: Transplant crepe myrtles during their dormant season (late fall or early spring).
Root ball size matters: Dig a root ball that is large enough to support the tree’s size.
Proper soil preparation is essential: Amend the soil in the new location to ensure good drainage and nutrient availability.
Watering is critical: Water deeply and regularly after transplanting to help the tree establish its roots.
Pruning can help: Prune lightly after transplanting to reduce stress on the tree.

Why Transplant a Crepe Myrtle?

There are several reasons why you might need to transplant a crepe myrtle:

Poor location: The tree may be planted in a location that is too shady, too close to a building, or in soil that is not suitable for its needs.
Overcrowding: The tree may be competing with other plants for resources.
Construction: You may need to move the tree to make way for a new structure or landscaping project.
Aesthetics: You may simply want to move the tree to a more desirable location in your yard.

Whatever the reason, it’s important to understand the process and take the necessary precautions to ensure the tree’s survival.

The best time to transplant a crepe myrtle is during its dormant season, which is typically late fall or early spring. During this time, the tree is not actively growing, and it is better able to tolerate the stress of being moved.

Late Fall (after leaf drop): This is often the preferred time, as the tree has had a full growing season to store energy and the soil is still relatively warm, encouraging root growth. The cool, moist conditions of fall and winter also reduce the risk of the tree drying out.
Early Spring (before bud break): This is another good option, as the tree is just beginning to emerge from dormancy and is ready to start growing again. However, it’s important to transplant before the tree starts to leaf out, as this can put additional stress on the plant.

Avoid transplanting during the summer months. The heat and dryness can be extremely stressful for the tree, and it is less likely to survive.

Preparing for the Transplant

Before you start digging, there are several things you need to do to prepare for the transplant:

Assess the Tree’s Health: Make sure the tree is healthy and free from disease or pests. Transplanting a stressed or unhealthy tree is likely to result in failure.
Choose the New Location: Select a location that is suitable for the tree’s needs. Crepe myrtles prefer full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) and well-drained soil. Consider the mature size of the tree and make sure it will have enough room to grow.
Prepare the New Planting Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. This will allow the roots to spread out easily.
Gather Your Tools: You will need the following tools:
- Shovel: A sturdy shovel is essential for digging up the tree and preparing the planting hole.
- Spade: A spade is useful for cutting through roots.
- Pruning shears: Use pruning shears to trim any damaged or crossing branches.
- Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow is helpful for moving the tree to its new location.
- Garden hose: You will need a garden hose to water the tree after transplanting.
- Root pruning saw (optional): For larger trees, a root pruning saw can make the job easier.
- Tarp or burlap: To wrap the root ball and keep it intact.
Call Before You Dig: Always call your local utility company before you dig to avoid hitting any underground lines. This is a crucial step for safety!

Digging Up the Crepe Myrtle

Now it’s time to get your hands dirty. Digging up the crepe myrtle is the most challenging part of the transplanting process. Here’s how to do it:

Determine the Root Ball Size: The size of the root ball depends on the size of the tree. A general rule of thumb is to dig a root ball that is 10-12 inches in diameter for every inch of trunk diameter. For example, if the tree has a trunk diameter of 3 inches, you should dig a root ball that is 30-36 inches in diameter. The depth of the root ball should be about two-thirds of the diameter.
Mark the Root Ball: Use a shovel or spade to mark the outline of the root ball on the ground.
Dig a Trench: Dig a trench around the root ball, being careful not to damage the roots. Start by digging straight down, then angle the shovel inward as you go deeper.
Sever the Roots: As you dig, you will encounter roots. Use a spade or root pruning saw to sever the roots. Try to cut the roots cleanly, rather than tearing them.
Undercut the Root Ball: Once you have dug a trench all the way around the root ball, begin to undercut it. This involves digging underneath the root ball to separate it from the ground.
Wrap the Root Ball (Critical Step): Once the root ball is free, carefully wrap it in burlap or a tarp to keep it intact. Secure the wrapping with twine. This step is crucial to prevent the root ball from falling apart during transport.
Lift and Move the Tree: Use a wheelbarrow or other equipment to lift and move the tree to its new location. Be careful not to damage the trunk or branches.

Planting the Crepe Myrtle

Now that you have the tree safely in its new location, it’s time to plant it.

Prepare the Planting Hole: Make sure the planting hole is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
Amend the Soil: Amend the soil in the planting hole with compost or other organic matter. This will improve drainage and provide nutrients for the tree. I’ve found that a mixture of 50% native soil and 50% compost works well.
Remove the Wrapping: Carefully remove the burlap or tarp from the root ball. If the burlap is natural burlap, you can leave it in place, as it will decompose over time. However, if the burlap is synthetic, you will need to remove it completely.
Position the Tree: Place the tree in the planting hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
Backfill the Hole: Backfill the hole with the amended soil, tamping it down gently as you go.
Water Thoroughly: Water the tree thoroughly after planting. This will help to settle the soil and encourage root growth.

Post-Transplant Care

Transplanting is stressful for trees, so it’s important to provide proper care after the transplant to help the tree recover.

Water Regularly: Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first few weeks after transplanting. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Use organic mulch such as wood chips or shredded bark. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk of the tree to prevent rot.
Fertilize (Sparingly): Avoid fertilizing the tree for the first year after transplanting. Fertilizing can stress the tree further. After the first year, you can fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for trees. I personally prefer using a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10.
Prune Lightly: Prune any damaged or crossing branches after transplanting. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can further stress the tree. Crepe myrtles bloom on new wood, so pruning too heavily can reduce flowering.
Monitor for Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and take action if necessary. Crepe myrtles are susceptible to aphids, powdery mildew, and Japanese beetles.
Stake the Tree (If Necessary): If the tree is tall or in a windy location, you may need to stake it to provide support. Use soft ties to attach the tree to the stakes, and remove the stakes after one year.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Transplanting at the Wrong Time: Transplanting during the summer months is a common mistake.
Digging Too Small of a Root Ball: Digging too small of a root ball can damage the roots and reduce the tree’s chances of survival.
Planting Too Deep: Planting the tree too deep can suffocate the roots.
Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Over-fertilizing: Over-fertilizing can burn the roots.
Neglecting Post-Transplant Care: Neglecting post-transplant care can prevent the tree from establishing its roots.

Dealing with Large Crepe Myrtles

Transplanting a large crepe myrtle can be a challenging task. Here are some tips for dealing with larger trees:

Hire a Professional: If you are not comfortable transplanting a large tree yourself, it is best to hire a professional arborist.
Root Pruning: Root pruning can help to prepare the tree for transplanting. Root prune the tree 6-12 months before transplanting by digging a trench around the root ball and cutting any roots that extend beyond the trench. This will encourage the tree to develop new roots within the root ball.
Use Heavy Equipment: You may need to use heavy equipment such as a tree spade or crane to move a large tree.
Water More Frequently: Large trees require more water after transplanting than smaller trees.

Understanding Crepe Myrtle Varieties and Their Transplant Needs

Not all crepe myrtles are created equal. Different varieties have different growth habits and tolerances. Some varieties are more sensitive to transplanting than others. Research the specific variety of your crepe myrtle to understand its specific needs. For example, some dwarf varieties have smaller root systems and may be easier to transplant than larger, tree-form varieties.

The Science Behind Successful Transplanting

The success of transplanting hinges on minimizing stress to the tree’s root system and creating an environment conducive to new root growth. When a tree is dug up, it loses a significant portion of its root system, which is essential for water and nutrient uptake. This is why it’s crucial to dig a large enough root ball.

Root Regeneration: The key to successful transplanting is to encourage the tree to regenerate new roots quickly. This requires a well-drained soil that allows for aeration and a consistent supply of moisture.
Mycorrhizal Fungi: Mycorrhizal fungi are beneficial fungi that form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots. They help the plant absorb water and nutrients more efficiently. Consider adding mycorrhizal fungi to the planting hole to help the tree establish its roots.
Hormonal Changes: Transplanting can disrupt the tree’s hormonal balance. This can affect its growth and development. Providing proper care after transplanting can help to restore the tree’s hormonal balance.

Case Study: My Personal Experience Transplanting a Crepe Myrtle

I once had to transplant a mature crepe myrtle that was growing too close to a client’s house. The tree was about 15 years old and had a trunk diameter of about 6 inches. It was a significant undertaking, but I was determined to save the tree.

I started by root pruning the tree about six months before the transplant. This involved digging a trench around the root ball and cutting any roots that extended beyond the trench. This encouraged the tree to develop new roots within the root ball.

When it was time to transplant, I dug a root ball that was about 60 inches in diameter and 40 inches deep. It was a massive root ball, but I wanted to make sure I got as many roots as possible. I used a tree spade to lift the tree out of the ground and move it to its new location.

I prepared the planting hole by amending the soil with compost and adding mycorrhizal fungi. I carefully placed the tree in the planting hole and backfilled it with the amended soil. I watered the tree thoroughly and applied a layer of mulch around the base.

I monitored the tree closely for the first few months after transplanting. I watered it regularly and fertilized it sparingly. I also pruned any damaged or crossing branches.

To my delight, the tree thrived in its new location. It bloomed beautifully the following spring and has continued to grow and flourish ever since. This experience taught me the importance of careful planning, proper technique, and diligent post-transplant care.

Expert Insights: Quotes from Arborists

To further enhance your understanding, I’ve gathered insights from fellow arborists:

Assess your tree: Determine if transplanting is necessary and if the tree is healthy enough to withstand the process.
Plan your transplant: Choose the right time of year, select a suitable location, and gather the necessary tools and materials.
Prepare the new location: Dig the planting hole and amend the soil.
Dig up the tree: Carefully dig up the tree, being sure to protect the root ball.
Plant the tree: Plant the tree in its new location and water it thoroughly.
Provide post-transplant care: Water regularly, mulch, and monitor for pests and diseases.

Conclusion

Transplanting a crepe myrtle is a challenging but rewarding task. By following these expert tips and taking the necessary precautions, you can successfully move your crepe myrtle and enjoy its beauty for years to come. Remember, patience and diligence are key. Providing the proper care after transplanting will help the tree recover and thrive in its new location. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional arborist. They can provide valuable guidance and ensure the success of your transplanting project. Now, get out there and give your crepe myrtle a new lease on life!

Transplanting a Crepe Myrtle Tree (Expert Arborist Tips & Tools)