White Center 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!
What’s the Problem?
You might need to relocate your plants for several reasons:
- Space Issues: Plants crowding sidewalks or overshadowing windows.
- Light Conditions: Too much or too little sunlight leading to poor growth.
- Root Problems: Roots too close to foundations, sidewalks, or sewer lines can cause damage.
- Renovation Needs: Projects that require moving plants instead of disposing of them.
- Drainage Changes: Soggy garden beds in winter or overly dry in summer.
- Love for the Plant: You want to cherish your plant in a better location.
Quick Note: For moves in the public right-of-way (like street trees/planting strips), permits may be needed. We also make it a point to call 811 before we dig—safety first!
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, resulting in less stress). Summer moves are possible but require extra care.
- Size Considerations: We can comfortably handle plants up to 4” trunk caliper or shrubs around 6–7’ wide without needing cranes. For larger specimens, we’ll provide honest alternatives.
Our Transplant Method (the secret sauce!)
- Planning & Marking: Identify the size by the plant’s dripline and dig the new hole first.
- Root-Ball Preparation: Create a tight ball using burlap or straps, following the rule of thumb: 10–12” ball per 1” trunk.
- Careful Lift & Placement: Ensure correct depth (with the root flare visible) and orientation for optimal sun and wind exposure.
- Backfill & Watering: Backfill with native soil first, mixing in other materials only if absolutely necessary.
- Staking if Needed: Provide low, flexible staking for 3–9 months, ensuring it’s removed once the plant is stable.
- Watering Basin & Mulch: Apply a 2–3” layer of mulch, 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: A simple schedule for the first 6 weeks, tapering off as roots establish (or we can take care of it for you).
- Mulch Top-ups: Keeping roots cool and weeds at bay.
- Structural Pruning: Light corrective cuts after leaf-out rather than heavy hacks.
- Targeted Fertilization: Only if necessary, based on soil conditions—not a guessing game.
- Staking & Tie Removal: Regular checks 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)
- Quarterly: Spring and fall deep clean + two transplant check-ups.
- Bi-Monthly: A balanced option for most White Center 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: Addressing 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: We provide you with a simple watering chart, check-ins at 2–6 weeks, and easy add-ons if you’d like.
Why White Center Chooses Neat & Tidy
- A local crew experienced with White Center’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!
