Transplanting a Red Bud (Cercis canadensis)

[Frax]

I'm not going to even pretend to be able to contribute to the discussion on shoot pruning in response to root loss or root pruning. I think all of you guys who move and plant trees have a pretty good idea what works in your region.

But I have often wondered about something I have read about tree biology. Auxins, which are primarily generated at shoot tips are known to be majorly important for root development. Auxins are important for much more than this, and I know that hormone production and effects in plants is not simple at all. I hardly understand any of it.

I think the reverse is true too. The hormones important for shoot production are generated in the roots. And, yeah, it not that simple for sure.

But isn't tthat an ingenious design? That trees store at least some of their potential for replacing lost roots in their shoots and vice versa? I think so anyway.

 

[lovinmyclimber]

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Thinking about digging a Red Bud up from behind my shed and transplanting it in my front yard. Soil shouldn't be any different. I'm just looking for any tips to make sure I dont kill it. It's surrounded by shell rock so it's going to be some fun digging. I will attempt to get the entire root ball out without harming it too badly. How far should I have to dig? It is roughly 6 foot tall. And is there any fertilizer or soil additive I should use for this species. Or do they do good just planting them as is. Thanks in advance!

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I did some research on this for you. I found several readings that say you shouldn't transfer it unless its three feet or smaller to prevent stress. They recommend finding a smaller one that has a better chance of getting well established in the ground. If you do transfer don't use fertilizer use compost.

 

[fireaxe]

Is red bud one of the trees that has nitrogen fixing bacteria nodules on the roots?

 

[KyLimbwalker]

No. It's one of the few legumes that does not fix nitrogen.

 

[banjo]

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I did some research on this for you. I found several readings that say you shouldn't transfer it unless its three feet or smaller to prevent stress.

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Sorry but this is faulty info. Tree height does not factor in when transplanting, it has everything to do with trunk caliper. The only restrictions with transplanting are budget and location of the tree to be moved. For example, you would never be able to do a proper dig on a street tree. No tree is to big to move.

 

[oceans]

This is an interesting thread, and everyone has great input.

Unless I have missed it, I didn't read anything about root pruning well before transplanting. Of course, this would imply that there was ample time and planning before the plant was deemed inappropriate for the site.

Adequate water is also important. With a generous planting hole, proper backfill, and a nice mulch layer (to prevent compaction from water, etc...), I have had success.

Plenty of moisture before moving, foliage protection (anti-transpirant, tarp, etc...) to prevent desiccation, and a nice new home with enough to drink seems like a decent formula.