How to Transplant an Established Large Boxwood Topiary

Water the topiary until the soil is moistened to a depth of 8 inches the day prior to transplanting.

Measure 12 inches from the main stem of the topiary and mark the soil in a circle around the entire plant with chalk or spray paint. Dig the topiary root ball following the markings around and to a depth of at least 12 inches. Boxwood have shallow roots.

Lift the topiary from the ground using planks to support and pry the root ball from the soil. Grab the topiary from the lower main to prevent damaging the pruned shape. Set the topiary upright on a tarp. Wrap the tarp around the root ball to limit moisture loss. Move the topiary carefully to the new planting location.

Dig a planting hole in the new location so it is twice as wide as the root ball and about 1 inch deeper. Mix an even amount of compost into the soil removed from the hole to add nutrients.

Fill 1 inch of compost into the bottom of the planting hole or enough so the top of the root ball is at ground level. Set the root ball into the hole and have someone hold the topiary. Step back, and make sure it is set straight.

Pack the compost and soil mixture around the root ball to hold it in place. Saturate the soil with water to eliminate any air pockets around the roots. Fill soil around the root ball if the soil settled below ground level.

Spread 1 to 2 inches of organic mulch around the base of the topiary to cover the root ball. Leave a 6-inch gap between the base of the topiary and the start of the mulch to prevent excess moisture buildup, which can cause stem rot.

Water the topiary once a week to moisten the soil about 8 inches deep when there is no rainfall for the first six months after transplanting.