Question:
We have two mature Japanese Maples that are over twenty-five years old. They have outgrown their location, and I want to transplant them to Carmel. Is this possible, and should I trim them before or after the move?Answer:
- Typically, now through the end of March is the time to transplant mature Japanese Maples and many other plants; however, it may be later this year. The ground is very wet, and you’ll need three weeks of dry weather before you can begin. You don’t want the soil to fall off the roots and bare root the Maples.
- Transplanting mature Maples is not as simple as it might seem because of the obstacles you will face.
- The first thing I would do is evaluate the new location. You will need a protected spot, especially from the summer winds. Japanese Maple leaves will burn from the salt contained in the moist marine influence. If this is the case, then I would abandon this idea.
- Next, you’ll need a root ball that is twenty-four inches square or larger. Many times a structure, concrete walkways, and other established plants make this a challenge. I’d prune the plants reducing the height and width before moving them. But be careful not to damage the shape as it takes too many years to reestablish once damaged. The root ball will weigh several hundred pounds, so a lift or several individuals will be necessary to move the root ball.
- Next, a truck will be required to transport the plants to their new location for transplanting. You may need several contractors to complete the task because of the distance
- . Given the issues and resources required, I’m not sure it’s practical when all is said and done. However, this may be a moot point because of the sentimental value associated with these plants.
Question:
I have a fast-growing Privet tree on a fence line. When I moved in five years ago, it was a manageable twelve feet, but now it has grown to over twenty feet high. The trunk is about ten inches around. The tree will win over the fence if it grows two more inches. Is there any way to stunt the growth or should I remove it?Answer:
- There are no practical ways to stunt the growth of a Privet tree other than manually trimming the canopy.
- You can shear it back severely before the flush of spring growth. You should shear off the new growth every eight to ten weeks during the rest of the year. This will keep the canopy and the diameter from overgrowing. However, the trunk will continue to expand. It will be a judgment call on your part whether or not to take the tree down.
- Since it is on the property line, it is now considered a boundary tree, so it doesn’t necessarily have to be removed. If the fence will be replaced in the next five to seven years, I’d leave the tree alone and then build a new fence around it.