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Re: Root Pruning to move trees

Marian Raitz wrote:
> 
> Greetings!
> I've heard that August is a good time to dig around a tree to cut
> major roots (and encourage new feeder roots in the ball) in
> preparation for moving the next fall.
> 
> Does anyone know whether now is ok to try this?  Root growth may
> still occur, especially in an el nino winter?  Or must there be
> leaves on the tree?

In zone 4 it would be too late, but perhaps not in zone 8. Even after
the leaves have gone, a significant amount of root growth may occur.
With a tree that large, it would be better to root prune it at least 3
times at six month intervals then dig and move it at the best planting
time in your area. Here (zone 4) that would be in early spring, but in
zone 8 it might be better in fall if your summers are very hot. 

The best way to root prune is to draw an imaginary line around the tree
just inside the outer limit of the ball you intend to have when you dig
it up. Then use a sharp shovel to cut the roots along this line to a
depth of about 12 inches. Cut only 1/3 of the roots at one time as if
making a dashed line with the shovel. At the next 2 pruning times, cut
the next 1/3 and then the final 1/3 cutting between the first (and then
the first AND second sets of shovel holes.

This process approximates what the Nursery Industry does in growing a
tree for sale, though they may take as long as 7 years.
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