When should I move a witch hazel?
Q I planted a witch hazel in February this year. I now believe that I planted it too close to the fence and I need to move it forward by 3ft (90cm) or so. Can I move it now or should I leave it until spring, after it has flowered?
Steve smith (via email)
A Now, or in November, is the best time to relocate your Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Arnold Promise’. The soil is still ‘summer warm’ and your charge will re-establish before temperatures plummet in winter.
Start by digging a trench around the tree, about 18in (45cm) from the trunk, to expose the roots. Cut through large roots, but leave fibrous roots intact. Ultimately, unearth the entire root system. Then, pivoting the rootball to one side, then the other, enclose it in heavy-gage plastic to stop it from drying out. Next, dig a hole the same depth as the rootball and twice as wide. ‘Implant’ the rootball so that it’s at the same depth as before.
Incidentally, you may need another person to help you move the tree. If you do, secure a pole to the trunk so that both of you can lift it. Finish by watering liberally to ensure that roots are in close contact with the soil.
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