Issaquah Shrub & Tree Transplanting & Relocation
Transplanting a shrub or small tree is no walk in the park! If not done right, it can lead to root shock, damaged roots, and a plant that struggles to thrive. But fear not—we specialize in making sure your plants thrive after their move, settling in beautifully!
Why Relocate Your Plants?
There are plenty of reasons you might need to shift your greenery around:
- Space Issues: Your plant is getting cozy with the sidewalk or blocking that beautiful view.
- Light Conditions: Too much sun or not enough can make your beloved plants weak and sad.
- Root Problems: Roots creeping too close to foundations or walkways can lead to significant issues.
- Renovation Needs: Planning a project and want to preserve your plants instead of tossing them?
- Drainage Changes: Is your garden bed a swamp in winter or a desert in summer?
- Love for the Plant: Sometimes, it’s just about finding a better spot for your favorites!
Quick Note: If your plants are in the public right-of-way (like street trees/planting strips), we might need permits. And of course, we’ll always call 811 before we dig—safety first!
What We Transplant (and When)
- Shrubs: We handle a variety like azalea, rhododendron, camellia, hydrangea, boxwood, laurel, pieris, and more!
- Small Trees: Think Japanese maple, vine maple, serviceberry, dogwood, and others.
- Best Season for Transplanting: Late fall to early spring is ideal (when plants are dormant). Summer moves are doable but require extra TLC.
- Size Considerations: We can manage plants up to a 4” trunk caliper or shrubs around 6–7’ wide without needing cranes. Larger specimens? We’ll provide honest alternatives.
Our Transplant Process (the secret sauce!)
- Planning & Marking: We assess the plant’s dripline and prepare the new hole first.
- Root-Ball Preparation: We create a snug ball using burlap or straps, following the golden rule: 10–12” ball for every 1” trunk.
- Careful Lift & Placement: We ensure the right depth (with the root flare visible) and optimal orientation for sun and wind.
- Backfill & Watering: We backfill with native soil first, adding other materials only if absolutely necessary.
- Staking if Needed: We provide low, flexible staking for 3–9 months, ensuring it’s removed 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)
This aftercare routine ensures your transplants not only survive but thrive:
- Establishment Watering: We establish a simple schedule for the first 6 weeks, tapering off as roots settle (or we can handle it for you).
- Mulch Top-ups: Keeping roots cool and pesky weeds at bay.
- Structural Pruning: Light corrective cuts after leaf-out, rather than drastic 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 let trunks 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)
- Quarterly: Spring and fall deep clean + two transplant check-ups.
- Bi-Monthly: A balanced option for most Issaquah yards.
- Monthly (first 90 days only): Ideal for summer moves or larger specimens needing extra love.
What Annual Maintenance Includes
- Deep Watering Plan: Clear guidelines on gallons-per-week based on plant size.
- Basin Reshaping & Mulch Refresh: To address 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: 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 provide 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: We provide you with a simple watering chart, check-ins at 2–6 weeks, and easy add-ons if you’d like.
Why Issaquah Chooses Neat & Tidy
- A local crew experienced with Issaquah’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. We’ll keep it neat and tidy—so you don’t have to!
