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moving a maple

I have a small Japanese maple that I'd like to move.  It's been in the ground for about 10 years now.  It's a lovely red, weeping one that comes to about waist height.  I'm wondering if it would survive a move after being established so long.  I would only be moving it to another part of the garden so soil etc would be the same.  I'm also guessing moving it in the dead of winter would be best if I decide to do it.  Has anyone done this and what are its chances of survival if I attempt it?

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  • BobTheGardenerBobTheGardener Posts: 11,391

    It's always very risky with such an established tree.  If you attempt it, you need to take as large a rootball as possible.  There's some good advice regarding that on this site:

    http://www.japanesemaplesonline.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/home.showpage/pageID/11/index.htm

    If you do move it, avoid planting it anywhere where it will get early morning sun as that will damage fresh new growth in early spring, so an east-facing border is not recommended.  Also avoid anywhere open or windy - they need a sheltered site with some shade.

    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  • RobmarstonRobmarston Posts: 335
    That's really useful. Thanks.
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