Moving shrubs

Both deciduous and evergreen shrubs can be moved successfully if they are healthy and growing vigorously, but you will need to move the plant with a rootball of soil intact, the size of which will depend on the size of the shrub being moved and the soil. Rootballs are very heavy, with large shrubs weighing in at half-a-hundredweight or more, so make sure you have plenty of help on hand. The best time to move established shrubs is during the dormant season between November and March. Wait until early April for evergreens. The diameter of the rootball should be about equal to half the spread of the main branches, or as large as practicable for larger specimens. Shrubs over 2m (7ft) tall or wide aren't worth tackling in my experience. They will struggle to support such a large amount of growth and are often overtaken by smaller, more easily transplanted specimens. The depth of the rootball should depend on the soil type: rootballs on heavy clay can be shallower than on lighter, sandy soils because plants tend to root more shallowly. Aim for up to 30cm (12in) on heavy soils and 45cm (18in) in lighter ones.

Tools required

spade

Skill rating

moderate