How to Transplant a Wax Myrtle

Calculate the size of the root ball based on the wax myrtle's trunk diameter. Add 12 inches to the root ball's diameter for each 1 inch of the shrub's trunk. The larger the root ball, the better the chances of survival for the shrub, but this also increases the overall weight.

Attach the twine to the bottom of the wax myrtle and then wind it around the plant's branches to hold them upright. Measure and mark the soil to show the diameter of the root ball and then measure a foot beyond this to dig a trench.

Create a trench that is 2 feet deep around the wax myrtle. Use a shovel angled in the trench to cut the roots beneath the shrub. Carefully tilt the shrub's root ball and place the burlap underneath one side and then the other. Pull the burlap up over the entire root ball and carefully lift the wax myrtle out of the hole.

Dig a new hole for the wax myrtle that is equal to the depth of the root ball and at least twice the width. Place the shrub in the hole and backfill partway, and then firm the soil around the roots. Finish backfilling and then thoroughly soak the area to settle the wax myrtle in place. Untie the twine holding the branches up.

Water the transplanted wax myrtle deeply every 10 to 14 days for at least two years to establish the plant's roots. Water less when it rains at least 1 inch per week.

Add a 3-inch layer of mulch extending out in a 3- to 4-foot-diameter around the wax myrtle. Do not put any mulch within four to six inches of the wax myrtle's stem to avert rot.