Bellevue Shrub & Tree Transplanting & Relocation
Transplanting a shrub or small tree isn’t just a simple dig-and-drop job. If done incorrectly, it can lead to root shock, damaged roots, and a plant that struggles for survival for seasons to come. But don’t worry—we ensure your plants thrive after the move, so they settle in beautifully right here in Bellevue!
Why Relocate Your Plants?
There are plenty of reasons to consider relocating your plants, and we get that! Here are some common scenarios:
- Space Constraints: Your plant has outgrown its current home, crowding sidewalks or overshadowing windows.
- Light Conditions: It might be soaking up too much sun or not enough, leading to weak growth.
- Root Issues: Roots creeping too close to foundations or walkways can cause problems down the line.
- Upcoming Renovations: Planning a project? Let’s move those plants rather than toss them.
- Drainage Problems: Perhaps your garden bed is too soggy during winter or too dry in summer.
- Plant Affection: Sometimes, you just love a plant and want to find it a better spot!
Quick Note: If you’re considering moves in the public right-of-way (like street trees or planting strips), we’ll help you with the permits needed. Plus, we always call 811 before we dig—safety is our top priority!
What We Move (and When)
We specialize in a variety of plants and know the best times to move them:
- Shrubs: Azalea, rhododendron, camellia, hydrangea, boxwood, laurel, pieris, and many more!
- Small Trees: Japanese maple, vine maple, serviceberry, dogwood, and others.
- Best Season for Transplanting: Late fall to early spring when plants are dormant, which reduces stress. Summer moves are doable but require extra care.
- Size Considerations: We can handle plants up to a 4” trunk caliper or shrubs around 6–7’ wide without needing cranes. Got a larger specimen? We’ll give you some honest alternatives!
Our Transplant Process (the secret sauce!)
Here’s how we make sure your plants get the best possible move:
- Planning & Marking: We identify the plant’s dripline and dig the new hole first to ensure everything’s ready.
- Root-Ball Preparation: We create a tight ball using burlap or straps, following this handy rule: 10–12” ball per 1” trunk.
- Careful Lift & Placement: We make sure the depth is just right (with the root flare visible) and the orientation is optimal for sun and wind exposure.
- Backfill & Watering: We backfill with native soil first and only mix in other materials if absolutely necessary.
- Staking if Needed: We’ll provide low, flexible staking for 3–9 months, removing it once the plant is stable.
- Watering Basin & Mulch: A 2–3” layer of mulch is applied, carefully pulled back from the trunk to avoid rot—no more “volcano” mulching!
Our Annual Maintenance Plan (Your Yard’s Best Friend)
We know how important aftercare is. Here’s what we offer to ensure your transplants not only survive but thrive:
- Establishment Watering: A simple schedule for the first 6 weeks that tapers off as roots establish (or we can handle it for you).
- Mulch Top-ups: Keeping roots cool and weeds at bay.
- Structural Pruning: Light corrective cuts after leaf-out, avoiding harsh hacks.
- Targeted Fertilization: Only if necessary, based on soil conditions—not a guessing game!
- Staking & Tie Removal: We check and usually remove stakes at 6–9 months to allow trunks to strengthen naturally.
We prioritize low-maintenance landscaping. Our goal is to create fewer problems between visits and lighten your workload.
Service Cadences (Find Your Fit)
Choose a maintenance schedule that suits your needs:
- Quarterly: Spring and fall deep clean + two transplant check-ups.
- Bi-Monthly: A balanced option for most Bellevue yards.
- Monthly (first 90 days only): Ideal for summer moves or larger specimens needing extra love.
What Annual Maintenance Includes
Here’s what you can expect from our annual maintenance:
- Deep Watering Plan: Clear guidelines on gallons-per-week based on plant size.
- Basin Reshaping & Mulch Refresh: To tackle any slumps or washouts.
- Light Structural Pruning and Deadwood Removal: Keeping plants healthy and tidy.
- Pest/Disease Monitoring: Regular checks for signs of lace bug, root rot, or sunscald.
- Soil Enhancements: Making necessary adjustments for compaction relief, adding organic matter, or managing wet feet.
Why Annual Maintenance Matters
- Increased Survival Rates: Less transplant shock means more root regrowth and thriving plants.
- Better Structure Early On: Setting correct scaffolds now equals fewer large cuts later.
- Water Efficiency: Ensuring the right volume and frequency saves you resources.
- Cleaner Beds: Fewer weeds competing with your new roots.
How It Works
- Free Estimate: We offer a straightforward approach through photos/videos or quick walkthroughs with clear, upfront pricing.
- Set Your Schedule: Choose from quarterly, bi-monthly, or monthly options.
- Service Day: We’ll lift, move, and plant your trees or shrubs correctly, plus prune, edge, and refresh mulch/gravel & lawns as needed.
- Follow-Up: You’ll receive a simple watering chart, with check-ins at 2–6 weeks to see how everything’s settling in.
Why Bellevue Chooses Neat & Tidy
- A local crew experienced with Bellevue’s unique hills, alleys, and tight spaces.
- Licensed & insured; we ensure utility locations are checked before every dig.
- Transparent pricing — labor, hauling, and disposal included.
- Clean, punctual work; we leave no mess behind.
- A green-first approach to minimize landfill waste (we reuse plants whenever possible).
Ready to make a move—without the risk?
Call or text Neat & Tidy for a quick quote and a tailored transplant + aftercare plan that suits your yard perfectly. Let us keep it neat and tidy—so you can enjoy your beautiful Bellevue landscape!
