Hi all,

We have a mature (~10' tall, ~10 year old) Texas Mountain Laurel that was planted too close to the house (~3' away), now the branches rub on the house. Trimming it isn't really an option, since about half of it would have to be removed, and it would look really silly.

I've read that transplanting this variety is tricky, but since it has to be removed anyway, I guess we're not out too much if it dies.

Having said that, I would like to maximize the chances of it surviving the move. I'm thinking of renting a track hoe and attempting to move the tree ~30'.

Any suggestions to maximize the success of the transplant? What time of year (I'm in Austin), size of root ball to attempt to maintain, etc.?

Thanks in advanace.

 

I've read that trying to transplant one over 2 1/2' is most likely not going to succeed. It has a deep taproot. Consider rooting cuttings and/or planting seeds and root pruning now. Transplant in fall or late winter when trees slow down their growth and many are dormant. You may find this helpful.
http://www.wildflower.org/plants/res...id_plant=SOSE3

Here's how to root prune, ball and burlap (B&B), plant, mulch and water.
http://www.utextension.utk.edu/publi...iles/sp571.pdf
http://www.freeplants.com/how_to_bal..._dig_plant.htm
http://www.arborday.org/trees/video/howtoplant.cfm
http://www.ext.nodak.edu/extpubs/pla...ees/f1147w.htm
http://www.treesaregood.com/treecare/mulching.aspx
http://cals.arizona.edu/pubs/water/az1298/

Hope that helps. If you need sites on how to take cuttings and root them just let me know.

Good luck,
Newt

 

Thanks, Newt.

I have only read the first of your links so far, but now I can tell my wife why it doesn't bloom like she wants. Yet more proof that it's in the wrong place...

Depending on how much it cost me to rent the hoe I may give it a shot, even though the chances of success are small. Like I said, it's got to come out of where it's at now anyway.

In addition, I'll collect up a bunch of the seeds that it's dropping right now and have a back-up plan...

 

You are very welcome. I hope it all goes well.

Newt