How to Transplant Delonix Regia

Till the soil to a depth of about 12 inches in an area at least three times the diameter of the root ball, using a rototiller or hand digging tools. Work in a few inches of organic humus materials, such as compost, leaf mold, shredded bark and coarse sand, if needed to provide well drained soil for the tree. Soil testing and extensive amendments are not necessary because royal poinciana grows in clay, loam and sandy soil, as well as acidic or alkaline soil. Select a site that receives full sun, or at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.

Dig a planting hole two to three times the diameter of the root ball and just as deep as the root ball. is slightly larger and deeper than the plants root-ball with a shovel. Plant the tree a minimum of 10-feet from sidewalks, driveways and other structures to prevent the roots from causing damage.

Set the tree in the hole so the top of the root ball rests even with the surrounding soil. If you have a bare-root transplant, soak the roots in water overnight before planting, build up a mound in the bottom of the hole and place the bare root tree on the mound with the roots draping over the mound. The root crown should rest just below soil grade.

Fill the hole with native soil packed gently around the root ball. Add more soil if the soil level settles upon packing.

Water the root zone deeply, using a slow drip or gentle mist, until the entire root ball is evenly moist, but not wet. Water plants at least once weekly throughout the growing season to keep the soil moist, but not wet; increase watering during hot, dry months. After plants become established and begin growing in the new site, they require little supplemental irrigation except during droughts. Plants require little water in winter.

Spread a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain soil temperature and moisture. Do not push the mulch directly against the tree trunk.

Fertilize the tree at planting and as much as once monthly, using a water-soluble, complete fertilizer. Fertilizer dilution rates vary depending on the product, but as a general rule, mix 1 tablespoon of fertilizer in 1 gallon of water. Apply to the root zone at a rate of 1 gallon for 10 square feet.