Where's Durgan? I have a question.

**chowder** · 08-20-2012, 04:08 PM

My son has a dwarf peach tree that he wants rid of.He said he will bring it to me but we are not sure when the best time would be.
He would leave it in the ground until Spring if need be but if we can dig it up and transplant this year then all the better.What do you think would be best for the tree?Thanks

**mndtrp** · 08-21-2012, 02:29 PM

From what I understand, you typically want to transplant in mid-late Fall. The upward growth of the tree is stopping, while the roots are still growing and doing their thing storing food for Spring. Transplanting in Spring will have the tree expending energy between growing up and down, and you need to get a good root system for your tree.

Canada, or the fact that it's a fruit tree, might dictate otherwise. Do you have something similar to our County Extension Offices available? Our offices are located in our areas, and have a wealth of information about local flora and fauna. We send in an email, and have an answer within a day or two.

**Spirit Deer** · 08-21-2012, 05:03 PM

Call a local nursery. They should be able to advise you about the type of tree and your particular area.

**madhen** · 08-22-2012, 05:05 PM

Peach trees are deciduous, so you can wait for it to go dormant, then dig it up then and move it right into the location you have prepared for it. I would add a little bone meal in the bottom of the hole, mixed into some nice aged compost, to help the roots get a good start when the tree comes out of dormancy.

**chowder** · 08-22-2012, 08:28 PM

Thanks for all the help.The garden centers say it doesn't matter.I will call the County Extension Offices,they may have a better idea.I do think that planting in the Fall may just be better ,makes sense what you say.This is a really nice tree and I want to do the best for it.Thanks again everyone!

**Spirit Deer** · 08-23-2012, 10:49 AM

I'm no expert, but it seems like it might be a good idea to put a good layer of mulch over the root ball to protect it from the cold this winter.

**chowder** · 08-23-2012, 02:15 PM

Yes I mulch most things for winter as we never know what the winter will bring.Better be safe than sorry.Thanks

**Durgan** · 08-26-2012, 06:13 PM

All my trees and shrubs are planted any time, but usually in the early Spring. The planting area is carefully prepared and every effort is taken not to disturb the root ball. Usually my planting is from container cultivars from a nursery. Removing from another area is sort of problematic, since by necessity much of the root is damaged, when digging and transporting, due to the tools used and the weight involved. After planting, the root area is heavily mulched with wood chips. Also careful regular watering is also undertaken.