Expert: Jim Hyland - 7/6/2009

Question
Last year I had the golden locust in my front yard cut down. Although I loved it, it was too close to the other trees.  Now, from its roots, I have new trees coming up--- or are they just "suckers"?  Anyway, can I dig them up and plant them in my back yard where they'll have more room to grow and be beautiful?
Thanks.

Answer
If they have their own root system they can be dug and transplanted. Check the sprouts root system it  maybe from the parent root (large root) and if so it will be difficult to dug a good root system to transplant. It would be worth the try but the success will be better if you wait until he hardwood drop their leaves in the fall. Transplanting trees in the hot summer give them a lower chance to survive.