The Dreamscapes has been transplanting trees, shrubs, and perennials for more than 10 years, with a very high success rate when proper transplanting procedures and aftercare are followed.

There are many reasons to transplant. A mature tree or shrub may provide immediate screening, help meet landscape or zoning requirements, have sentimental value, be growing in the wrong location, or need to be moved because of changes elsewhere on the property. The Dreamscapes has the equipment and experience to relocate plants whether they are moving 10 feet across the yard or 10 miles to another property, including small and large mechanical tree spades for larger specimens.

Our transplant guarantee extends for three years after installation when the transplant is covered by our Guaranteed Green Program. Schedule a free consultation and estimate to find out whether your tree, shrub, or plant is a good candidate for relocation.

Why Transplant an Existing Tree or Shrub?

Transplanting can preserve plants that already contribute size, shade, screening, structure, or character to the property. It can also solve practical problems when a healthy plant has outgrown its location, blocks a walkway or view, sits too close to the home, or needs different growing conditions.

For some homeowners, keeping the plant itself matters. A tree or shrub may have been planted for a special occasion or may have been part of the property for many years. If the plant is healthy and the site allows it, moving it may be a better option than starting over with a smaller replacement.

Can Your Tree or Shrub Be Transplanted?

The difficulty of a transplant depends heavily on four things: the site, the shape of the plant, its size, and the soil conditions. These factors affect access, root-ball size, equipment needs, and how the plant can be moved safely.

The Dreamscapes also considers the health and species of the plant, the condition of the root system, the distance it needs to travel, and whether the new location provides enough space and the right amount of sun, shade, moisture, and drainage.

Smaller shrubs, perennials, and young trees may be moved with hand tools and careful preparation. Mature trees and large shrubs require a much larger root ball and may need mechanical equipment to reduce unnecessary root disturbance during the move.

How Tree & Shrub Transplanting Works

Whenever possible, the new planting area is prepared before the plant is removed so the roots spend as little time exposed as possible. The root ball is sized according to the plant, its condition, and the way it will be moved rather than relying on one measurement for every transplant.

Once the plant is lifted, the root ball is supported during the move and the tree or shrub is placed at the correct height in its new location. Planting too deeply can cause long-term problems, so proper positioning is important. Soil is returned around the root ball and watered thoroughly to settle it around the roots.

The planting area can then be finished with mulch to help conserve moisture and protect the root zone, while keeping mulch away from direct contact with the trunk or stems.

Best Time to Transplant in Georgia

For many trees and shrubs, late fall through winter and into early spring provides favorable transplanting conditions. Cooler temperatures reduce stress, and many plants are dormant or growing more slowly during this period.

Summer moves can be more difficult because heat and active growth increase water demand. The best timing still depends on the species, plant condition, weather, and individual site, especially when moving a large or valuable specimen.

Transplanting a Small Tree or Shrub Yourself

Some smaller plants can be moved successfully by homeowners. Before digging, choose the new location carefully and make sure it provides the conditions the plant needs. Watering ahead of the move can help when the soil is dry.

1. Prepare the new hole first. This limits the amount of time the roots remain out of the ground.
2. Dig an adequate root ball. Preserve as much of the root system as practical and make clean cuts where roots must be severed.
3. Support the root ball during the move. A tarp or similar support can help keep the soil and roots together while moving smaller plants.
4. Replant at the proper height. Backfill around the root ball and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
5. Protect the root zone. Add mulch around the planting area, leaving space around the trunk or stems.

If the plant is large, difficult to access, especially valuable, or too heavy to move while keeping an adequate root ball intact, professional transplanting is the safer option.

Caring for a Plant After Transplanting

After the move, consistent moisture is one of the most important parts of establishment. Watering needs depend on the size of the plant, weather, soil type, rainfall, and drainage, so the root zone should be monitored rather than watered according to the same fixed schedule in every situation.

The goal is to prevent the root ball from drying out while also avoiding constantly saturated soil. For additional guidance, see our plant watering and care information.

Need Help Moving a Tree or Shrub?

For mature trees, large shrubs, valuable plants, or locations that require specialized equipment, The Dreamscapes can evaluate the plant and determine the best way to relocate it.

Call The Dreamscapes at 678-574-4008 or schedule a free estimate online. Our three-year transplant guarantee is available when the transplant is covered by our Guaranteed Green Program.