On Sun, 30 Jul 2006 00:33:39 -0500, sherwindu
wrote:



Jangchub wrote:


Moving any tree or large shrub in Texas (where I live) at this time of
year is certain death, no question.

The very best time to move any tree, any climate is when you'd plant
it originally.

I have never heard this theory before. Perhaps you can explain the
logic behind it? Are you saying that it should be planted at the optimal
time for that climate, or are you saying just match up the season it was
originally planted in? If you mean the former, in any area I can think of,
fall would be the best time. If you mean the later, it makes no sense.

The best time to plant fruit trees is in late winter. I am saying the
optimal time to transplant is the same as the optimal time to plant.
If the plant is in a container there is more wiggle room, but not
much.

So, if fruit tree planting time is in the late winter,
that's when it would be good to move them. In areas where the ground
freezes, I suggest you dig the holes where you'll move the trees to
and fill the holes with leaves till you're ready to dig out the trees.
One other thing would make it easier, root prune the tree in early
fall with a shovel or sharp shooter so if the ground is frozen in late
winter you will not have too hard a time removing the tree from its
old location.

Where in the world do you plant trees in the dead of winter? Perhaps
you are thinking of a warm zone, where the ground never freezes, but
I think early spring would work much better, and even better in fall.
Fall is usually the best time because the earth is still warm and roots
can grow somewhat before the cold winter temperatures set in.

Sherwin D.


Yes, "you think." Did you read the whole post where I said to dig a
hole when it is still warm out, fill it in with leaves, and I will say
if there's any alfalfa hay around that would be great to fill the hole
with till it's time to dig out the fruit tree. And yes, I plant fruit
trees where I live in February, which is late winter. It is not a
good idea to plant trees right before the summer. A tremendous amount
of watering and fussing will bring it through, but there will be
stress to the tree and the roots will not develop as well. Always
best to plant in EITHER late fall or winter. You may disagree. This
is Usenet. I do far more research for myself than taking the word of
anyone I don't know.