Transplanting some "wild" trees?

[FishZapper]

Been hiking around on my land a bit and have identified a few small saplings that I'd potentially like to put in my yard.

There is a small American holly, about 14" tall with a trunk about the diameter of a pencil

An Umbrella Magnolia which at its base is about as wide as a finger, but is about 24" tall.

Chestnut oak sprouts of various sizes, from 8" - 60" tall.

While the first two of these are known as "understory" trees, I suppose because of their ability to do well in low light, it is my understanding that they can do well in a yard. My questions are:

1. What would be the best time of year to do a transplant?

2. Should I fertilize or water excessively or anything once they are moved?

3. Any particular tricks to this process?

Guys, this site is a great resource, and Im considering take a dendrology class next semester just to get myself up to speed. I appreciate any advice.

 

[Adkpk]

Wild trees are hard to take alive. I have found they put out one root that really goes far. Must be the guy they send for water. Other than that I would spade around it well to cut the roots then go back after a month or two to dig them out. Gives them a chance to get over the shock in their own environment. I would dig them now and pull'em in the spring. I don't prescribe fert. but if needed use cow manure or compost. Water is must. Keep them wet for the first year. Good luck.

 

[Newt*]

FishZapper,

You may find these sites helpful.
http://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheets/hgic1015.htm

Magnolia roots tend to girdle (circle the trunk or root ball). Cut any circling roots, especially if located at the top of the root ball or close to the trunk. The root system spreads wider than most trees. For this reason, transplanting magnolias is difficult, as so much of the root system is lost. Transplant field-grown trees in late winter or early spring.

Also see:
http://www.arhomeandgarden.org/plantoftheweek/articles/Umbrella_Magnolia_7-8-05.htm
http://www.bestgardening.com/bgc/plant/magnolia01.htm

Oaks tend to have a deep taproot so dig deep for that one.
http://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/trees/QUEPRIA.pdf

For transplanting, mulching and watering.
http://www.ext.nodak.edu/extpubs/plantsci/trees/f1147w.htm
http://www.freeplants.com/how_to_ball_and_burlap_dig_plant.htm
http://www.treesaregood.com/treecare/mulching.aspx
http://cals.arizona.edu/pubs/water/az1298/
http://www.watersaver.org/pdfs/FALL_CARING_FOR_TREES.pdf

Newt

 

[FishZapper]

Wow. Thanks for all those links! Very informative.

 

[Newt*]

You are very welcome!

Newt

 

[treeseer]

those 3 species tend to taproot and so are difficult. dig deep and move a big ball. protect from sun. good luck.