Kirkland Shrub & Tree Transplanting & Relocation

Transplanting a shrub or small tree in Kirkland isn’t just about digging a hole and dropping it in. If not done correctly, it can lead to root shock and a struggling plant. With our expertise, we ensure your plants thrive after the move, so they settle in beautifully!

Why You Might Need to Move Your Plants

Consider relocating your plants for these common reasons:

• Space Issues: Overgrown plants crowding sidewalks or blocking views.
• Light Conditions: Inadequate sunlight affects growth, especially in areas like Finn Hill or Bridle Trails.
• Root Problems: Roots too close to your foundation or walkways may cause damage.
• Renovation Needs: A new patio or landscaping project requiring plant relocation.
• Drainage Changes: Persistent sogginess in your garden beds, particularly after heavy rains.
• Love for the Plant: You want to give your favorite plant a better home.

Quick Note: For moves in the public right-of-way (like street trees or planting strips), permits may be necessary. We always call 811 before digging—safety is our priority!

What We Move (and When)

• Shrubs: Azalea, rhododendron, camellia, hydrangea, boxwood, laurel, pieris, and more.
• Small Trees: Japanese maple, vine maple, serviceberry, dogwood, and others.
• Best Season for Transplanting: Late fall → early spring (when plants are dormant). Summer moves are possible but need extra care.
• Size Considerations: We handle plants up to 4” trunk caliper or shrubs around 6–7’ wide without cranes. For larger specimens, we’ll discuss alternatives.

Our Transplant Method (the secret sauce!)

1. Planning & Marking: We assess the plant’s dripline and dig the new hole first.
2. Root-Ball Preparation: We create a tight ball using burlap or straps, adhering to the guideline of 10–12” ball per 1” trunk.
3. Careful Lift & Placement: We ensure correct depth (with the root flare visible) and optimal orientation for sun and wind.
4. Backfill & Watering: We backfill with native soil first, adding other materials only if necessary.
5. Staking if Needed: We provide low, flexible staking for 3–9 months, removing it when the plant stabilizes.
6. Watering Basin & Mulch: A 2–3” layer of mulch is applied, pulled back from the trunk to prevent rot.

Our Annual Maintenance Plan (Your Yard’s Best Friend)

This aftercare routine ensures your transplants not only survive but thrive:

• Establishment Watering: A simple schedule for the first 6 weeks, tapering off as roots establish (or we can handle it for you).
• Mulch Top-ups: Helps keep roots cool and weeds at bay.
• Structural Pruning: Light corrective cuts after leaf-out instead of heavy hacking.
• Targeted Fertilization: Only if needed based on soil conditions.
• Staking & Tie Removal: We check and typically remove stakes at 6–9 months.

We prioritize low-maintenance landscaping to minimize your workload between visits.

Service Cadences (Find Your Fit)

• Quarterly: Spring and fall deep clean + two transplant check-ups.
• Bi-Monthly: A balanced option for most Kirkland yards.
• Monthly (first 90 days only): Ideal for summer moves or larger specimens needing extra care.

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 plants healthy and tidy.
• Pest/Disease Monitoring: Regular checks for signs of pests or diseases.
• Soil Enhancements: Adjustments for compaction relief and organic matter addition.

Why Annual Maintenance Matters

• Increased Survival Rates: Less transplant shock leads to more robust root growth.
• Better Structure Early On: Proper scaffolding now means fewer large cuts later.
• Water Efficiency: Right volume and frequency saves resources.
• Cleaner Beds: Fewer weeds competing with your new roots.

How It Works

1. Free Estimate: Straightforward estimates through photos/videos or quick walkthroughs with clear pricing.
2. Set Your Schedule: Choose from quarterly, bi-monthly, or monthly options.
3. Service Day: We’ll lift, move, and plant your trees or shrubs correctly, plus prune, edge, and refresh mulch/gravel & lawns.
4. Follow-Up: We provide a simple watering chart, check-ins at 2–6 weeks, and easy add-ons if you’d like.

Why Kirkland Chooses Neat & Tidy

• A local crew experienced with Kirkland’s unique hills and neighborhoods.
• 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 Kirkland yard perfectly. We’ll keep it neat and tidy—so you don’t have to!