Expert: Jim Hyland - 9/14/2006

Question
Hi There,

We have three leyland cyprus tree close to our house.  They are in the height range of 15-20 feet.  We are planning on moving them to a different location.

IS this possible and feasible?

IF not, can we just prune the top and the sides to a smaller size tree?

Thank you.
== Pammi

Answer
The biggest problem with moving tree is the size of the root ball neededd for the tree to survive. The root ball needs to be about 12 inches wide for each inch of tree diameter. A 3 inch diameter tree will need a root ball of 36 inches across. The depth of the root ball should be about 18-24 inches. This is roots and soil. Thwe new hole should be about twice the size of the root ball and filled with potting soil and mulched. Woody plants are preferably moved in the spring after the ground thaws and before the buds on the tree or shrub begin to swell.
Here is a web link for more infromation on transplanting trees.
http://www.ext.nodak.edu/extpubs/plantsci/trees/f1147w.htm

Also a good link for pruning. Take note not to prune too much off per year less than 1/3 the height.
http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profiles0402/pruning_leylandii.asp