Collecting Japanese Maple?

[reefed419]

Hello growers,
I am interested in collecting a japanese maple that has been in the ground for around 15 years.

I came upon this tree as my mother is moving and has multiples so is wanting to transplant some and I get one for doing the work...

My question is can it be done? If so what is the best way to do it? How much should I dig around the tree to preserve the roots? How far should I dig down? What time of year is the best to make a major move? Should I defoliate the plant once re-planted?

Once collected I am wanting to chop mine down and back bud it out. When is the best time of year to

I have collected and/or transplanted a few crape myrtle and azalea in my day with great success, but know the japanese maple will be more difficult, as they are finicky. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[FromSeed]

Hello growers,
I am interested in collecting a japanese maple that has been in the ground for around 15 years.

I came upon this tree as my mother is moving and has multiples so is wanting to transplant some and I get one for doing the work...

My question is can it be done? If so what is the best way to do it? How much should I dig around the tree to preserve the roots? How far should I dig down? What time of year is the best to make a major move? Should I defoliate the plant once re-planted?

Once collected I am wanting to chop mine down and back bud it out. When is the best time of year to

I have collected and/or transplanted a few crape myrtle and azalea in my day with great success, but know the japanese maple will be more difficult, as they are finicky. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for the help.

Digging now would almost certainly kill such an established tree. Wait till spring when buds are just swelling. Pre-dig half of the surrounding area you would like to remove around the tree if you like, but that's it.

 

[RKatzin]

Well, interesting, but hold on there a tree diggin minute. I'd like a little more info before responding to your situation, please.

First of all, where are the trees located and where are they going to. How much time do you have?

Also, you say in the ground, how and where? Along a driveway, in a rock garden, in good garden space or landscaping with irrigation?

What type of Japanese Maples (dwarfs, standards, laceleaf, ect.)and what size are they?
Let's have some info and a pic if you can manage, Rick

 

[M. Frary]

The best time to collect this tree would be in the spring just as the buds start to swell. The best time to chop it down to size is just before you start digging. I usually dig approximately 8" to 10" from the base of the stump. I dig down maybe the same depth sometimes a little more.