Burien Shrub & Tree Transplanting & Relocation
Transplanting a shrub or small tree isn’t merely a dig-and-drop task; it requires finesse and attention to detail. If mishandled, your beloved plants could face root shock, and we definitely don’t want that! Our goal is to ensure they thrive in their new homes, so they can continue to beautify your landscape.
We’re thrilled to serve the vibrant neighborhoods of Admiral, Alaska Junction, Alki, Fauntleroy, Arbor Heights, Delridge, Gatewood, High Point, Morgan Junction, and Roxhill. Let’s get your garden looking its best!
What’s the Problem?
Wondering why you might need to relocate your plants? Here are some common reasons:
- Space Issues: Your plant’s getting a bit too cozy and is starting to crowd sidewalks or block windows.
- Light Conditions: Whether it’s too much sun or not enough, the wrong light can hinder growth.
- Root Problems: Roots encroaching on foundations, walkways, or side sewers can spell trouble.
- Renovation Needs: Planning a project? Moving plants can save them from being discarded.
- Drainage Changes: Seasonal wet or dry spells can affect your garden’s health.
- Love for the Plant: You cherish your plant but want it to flourish in a better location.
Quick Note: If you’re considering moves in the public right-of-way (like street trees or planting strips), keep in mind that permits may be necessary. Plus, we always call 811 before we dig—safety first!
What We Move (and When)
We specialize in relocating:
- Shrubs: Azalea, rhododendron, camellia, hydrangea, boxwood, laurel, pieris, and more.
- Small Trees: Japanese maple, vine maple, serviceberry, dogwood, and others.
Best Time to Transplant
The golden rule is to transplant during late fall to early spring when plants are dormant, minimizing stress. Summer moves are possible but require extra care.
Size Considerations
We can efficiently handle plants up to a 4” trunk caliper or shrubs around 6–7’ wide without needing heavy machinery. Got a larger specimen? We’ll provide honest alternatives.
Our Transplant Method (the secret sauce!)
- Planning & Marking: We begin by determining the dripline and preparing the new hole.
- Root-Ball Preparation: A tight root ball is created using burlap or straps—aiming for 10–12” ball per 1” trunk.
- Careful Lift & Placement: We ensure the proper depth and orientation for optimal sun exposure.
- Backfill & Watering: Native soil is used for backfilling, with additional materials added only when absolutely necessary.
- Staking if Needed: Low, flexible staking is provided for 3–9 months, but we’ll remove it once the plant stabilizes.
- Watering Basin & Mulch: A 2–3” layer of mulch is applied, carefully kept away from the trunk to prevent rot (no “volcano” mulching here!).
Our Annual Maintenance Plan (Your Yard’s Best Friend)
To ensure your transplants not only survive but thrive, we recommend our aftercare routine:
- Establishment Watering: A simple schedule to follow for the first 6 weeks, or we can take care of it for you.
- Mulch Top-ups: Keeping roots cool and suppressing weeds.
- Structural Pruning: Light corrective cuts after leaf-out to maintain shape.
- Targeted Fertilization: Only when necessary, based on soil conditions—not a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Staking & Tie Removal: We check and typically remove stakes at 6–9 months to let trunks strengthen naturally.
Our focus is on low-maintenance landscaping. We aim to create fewer problems between visits, making your life easier.
Service Cadences (Find Your Fit)
Choose the plan that works best for you:
- Quarterly: Spring and fall deep clean + two transplant check-ups.
- Bi-Monthly: A balanced option for most Burien yards.
- Monthly (first 90 days only): Perfect for summer moves or larger specimens needing extra care.
What Annual Maintenance Includes
- Deep Watering Plan: Guidelines on how many gallons to provide each week based on plant size.
- Basin Reshaping & Mulch Refresh: Addressing any slumps or washouts.
- Light Structural Pruning and Deadwood Removal: Keeping your plants healthy and tidy.
- Pest/Disease Monitoring: Regular checks for signs of lace bug, root rot, or sunscald.
- Soil Enhancements: Adjustments for compaction relief, adding organic matter, or managing wet conditions.
Why Annual Maintenance Matters
- Increased Survival Rates: Less transplant shock means more robust root regrowth.
- Better Structure Early On: Correct scaffolding now equals fewer large cuts later.
- Water Efficiency: Ensuring the right volume saves resources.
- Cleaner Beds: Fewer weeds competing with your new roots, leading to a healthier landscape.
How It Works
- Free Estimate: We provide a straightforward approach through photos/videos or quick walkthroughs with clear 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, check-ins at 2–6 weeks, and easy add-ons if desired.
Why Burien Chooses Neat & Tidy
- A local crew well-versed in Burien’s unique hills, alleys, and tight spaces.
- Licensed & insured; we check utility locations 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 don’t have to!
