The Best Time to Move a Dwarf Weeping Birch

Preparation

• To increase the chances of a successful move, prune the tree's roots. A birch tree's root system extends well beyond the width of the canopy. Root pruning reduces the amount of root mass and creates a stronger, more compact root system for transplanting. This should be done in the spring prior to bud break for trees to be moved in the fall, and in the fall after the leaves have fallen for those to be moved in the spring. A trench should be dug around the trunk to the diameter of the desired root ball. For weeping birch under 6 feet tall, the diameter should be up to 18 inches. For trees more than 6 feet with a trunk diameter between 1 and 2 inches, trench an area between 20 and 30 inches in diameter.

Site Selection

• Whether you are planting a weeping birch for the first time, or moving one, the proper site is critical for the tree's survival. Make sure that the weeping birch will be planted in moist, but well-drained soil. Ideal locations are the north or east side of a house, as birches perform better in partially shaded locations. A pH test of the soil should be conducted prior to transplanting to make sure that the soil is slightly acidic, as birch trees do not tolerate alkaline soils.

Post-transplant Care

• Once the birch is in the planting hole at the proper level, backfill with the soil that was excavated from the hole, to protect the roots as soon as possible. After the soil has been placed around the root mass, water thoroughly to remove air pockets and settle the soil. Add more soil as needed. A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch should be applied around the tree. This will help regulate soil temperatures, conserve moisture and reduce competition from other plants as the root system of the tree re-establishes itself.

Long-Term Maintenance

• The most important consideration for transplanted weeping birch trees during the first year and for all subsequent years, is to ensure that they get adequate moisture. If the soil is dry and crumbling during the growing season, give the birch a deep, two- to three-hour watering to a depth of 8 to 18 inches. Weeping birch trees also can benefit from a late fall or early spring application of all-purpose or tree fertilizer.