Trees can outgrow their pots. So much so, the roots can sometimes crack right through the solid concrete sides!
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If you want to keep your trees from outgrowing their shady space, you’ll have to make an attempt to keep the soil, as well as the root ball, contained.
To do this you can wrap hessian around it, but the roots might still grow through that as well and into the ground below. Take a Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) for example. Moving something this size needn’t be that much of an undertaking.
When is the best time of year to move a tree?
Before attempting to do anything with your tree, the first thing to consider is timing. Winter is the best time to transplant, re-pot or heavily prune a deciduous tree, because it’s dormant and therefore won’t suffer the stress this sort of work can cause.
How to remove a tree
Start by removing the hessian and dismantling the broken pot. For larger sections, carefully use a lump hammer to break up the cement, then remove. Now the root ball is exposed, use a sterile and sharp pair of secateurs, loppers or a saw, to remove damaged or problematic roots on the sides of the root ball. Ensure the cuts are straight and clean because torn, blunt cuts encourage infection. Don’t worry about hurting the tree – it really is fast asleep and won’t even know you are clipping anything away.
What to do about problematic roots
There could be problematic roots on the underside of the root ball that aren’t visible, but may need removing. Using heavy-duty straps and the help of another person, position the straps under the root ball and tip the tree to one side to sever any roots, which then need to be trimmed.
How to move
Position a new, bigger pot in your desired location. Part-fill with potting mix, lift the tree (again, using straps) and place inside the new pot. Backfill with potting mix and water well using a seaweed solution. If necessary, also prune any damaged or unwanted branches. Or alternatively, replant your maple into a new spot in the garden. It will love its spacious new home!
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