Shoreline Shrub & Tree Transplanting & Relocation
Transplanting a shrub or small tree is more than just digging a hole and dropping it in. If it’s not done right, you could end up with a plant that’s stressed, struggling, or worse. But fear not—we’re here to make sure your plants not only survive but thrive in their new homes!
Why Relocate Your Plants?
There are plenty of reasons to consider moving your beloved greenery:
- Space Constraints: Is your plant growing too big for its britches, blocking pathways or casting shadows on your windows?
- Sunlight Issues: Maybe it’s getting too much sun or not enough, and that’s stunting its growth.
- Root Dilemmas: Roots creeping too close to your home’s foundation or walkways can lead to problems down the line.
- Renovation Plans: If you’re sprucing up your yard, it might be easier to relocate plants than to toss them out.
- Drainage Troubles: Is your garden too soggy in winter or parched in summer? It might be time for a move.
- Plant Love: You simply adore your plant but want to give it a better spot to flourish.
Quick Tip: If you’re considering moving trees in the public right-of-way (like along the streets), don’t forget that permits might be required. And we always call 811 before we start digging—safety is our top priority!
What We Can Move (and When)
- Shrubs: From azaleas to boxwoods and everything in between—think hydrangeas, laurel, and pieris.
- Small Trees: We’re talking about Japanese maples, dogwoods, serviceberries, and more.
- Best Time for Transplanting: Aim for late fall to early spring when plants are dormant to minimize stress. Moving in summer? We’ve got special care techniques to help.
- Size Matters: We comfortably handle plants up to 4” trunk caliper or shrubs around 6–7’ wide without needing cranes. Larger plants? We’ll give you honest alternatives.
Our Transplant Process (the magic behind the move!)
- Planning & Marking: We start by assessing the size based on the plant’s dripline and digging the new hole first—no last-minute rushes!
- Root-Ball Preparation: We wrap the root ball securely in burlap or straps, adhering to the classic rule: 10–12” ball for every 1” trunk.
- Careful Lift & Placement: We ensure the correct depth (with the root flare visible) and the right orientation for optimal sun and wind exposure.
- Backfill & Watering: We prioritize backfilling with native soil first, mixing in extra 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: We apply a 2–3” layer of mulch, carefully pulled back from the trunk to avoid rot (goodbye, “volcano” mulching!).
Our Annual Maintenance Plan (Your Yard’s Best Buddy)
Our aftercare routine guarantees your transplants don’t just survive—they thrive:
- Establishment Watering: A simple schedule for the first 6 weeks, tapering off as roots establish (or we can handle it all for you).
- Mulch Top-ups: Keeping roots cool and weeds at bay.
- Structural Pruning: Light corrective cuts after leaf-out instead of heavy hacks.
- Targeted Fertilization: Only if necessary, based on soil conditions—no guesswork here!
- Staking & Tie Removal: We check and usually remove stakes at 6–9 months to let trunks strengthen naturally.
We focus on low-maintenance landscaping—our goal is to create fewer problems between visits and lighten your workload.
Service Options (Choose Your Perfect Fit)
- Quarterly: Spring and fall deep clean + two transplant check-ups.
- Bi-Monthly: A balanced option for most Shoreline yards.
- Monthly (first 90 days only): Ideal for summer moves or larger specimens needing extra TLC.
What Annual Maintenance Covers
- Deep Watering Plan: Clear guidelines on gallons-per-week based on plant size.
- Basin Reshaping & Mulch Refresh: To fix 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 is Key
- Higher Survival Rates: Less transplant shock means more root regrowth and flourishing plants.
- Better Structure Early On: Correct scaffolding now equals fewer large cuts later.
- Water Efficiency: Ensuring the right volume and frequency saves resources.
- Cleaner Beds: Fewer weeds competing with your new roots.
Here’s How It Works
- Free Estimate: We offer an easy-peasy approach through photos/videos or quick walkthroughs with clear, upfront pricing.
- Set Your Schedule: Choose from quarterly, bi-monthly, or monthly options that suit your needs.
- 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 Shoreline Chooses Neat & Tidy
- A local team experienced with Shoreline’s unique hills, alleys, and tight spaces.
- Licensed & insured; we always 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 fits your yard perfectly. We’ll keep it neat and tidy—so you don’t have to!
