What is the best method for planting a tree? We’d put up a pretty good fight that it is tree spading. This method requires a tree spade, a machine attached to a piece of equipment, like a skidsteer, or attached to a truck. The machine has spades that open up and surround the tree in a circle, then slowly move into the ground. Once in the ground, at the proper depth, the tree is plucked from the ground, driven to it’s new home and planted. It’s a pretty easy process, so long as the equipment, weather & site cooperate!
Tree spading can be a less expensive way to transplant larger trees. Because you would typically move a larger tree, you’ll have “instant gratification” in the landscape. This is a great way to create an instant vertical screen, say if you back up to a busy road or commercial area.
If tree spading is so great, why doesn’t everyone plant this way? First, you need the access to the machine and operator. Next, the planting site has a lot to do with whether we move a tree by hand or with a tree spade. A tree spade requires a significantly larger access area above ground, along with the availability of space in perspective to the underground utility lines. The equipment or spade truck may cause damage to the lawn, concrete or any surface it drives over. This makes it less likely to be used in a densely populated urban area. The tree spade can only handle so much of a slope to drive. Finally, this is all weather dependent. We have a short season to spade in the spring and a slightly longer season in the fall and early winter before the ground freezes. Some trees transplant better in spring versus fall.
We offer site inspections and tree relocation services, so contact us if you have any questions!
Nebraska Nursery & Color Gardens
Unique Landscapes, Home Grown Roots