The saying that you shouldn't replant an old tree isn't entirely out of thin air. Nevertheless, it often only becomes apparent afterwards that the apple tree planted two or three years ago has become much too big for the current location or simply does not fit there. Cutting it down with scissors is not the solution either, so it is better to transplant it to a more suitable place in the garden.
Fall is a good time to transplant trees
However, this action should not be delayed for longer than four years, because the fine root system in particular, which is responsible for absorbing water, runs the risk of being destroyed otherwise, so that permanent damage to the tree cannot be completely ruled out.
Autumn and spring are best for transplanting, although cutting off the root ball must be generous. As an approximate guideline, the size of the tree crown is identical to that of the root ball. The soil must therefore be excavated in a radius of at least 80 to 120 cm around the trunk for a two to three year old tree. It must be ensured that the deeper-lying roots below the ball are separated with a spade that is as sharp as possible and not simply torn out of the ground.
Prepare the new location well
In order to keep the "moving stress" of the tree as low as possible, a not too tight hollow is dug, which is filled with humus and compost according to the respective requirements of the fruit variety. Depending on the existing soil conditions, clay, sand, peat and a little lime can be added. The planting hole should be at least twice as large as the root system of your tree. As the soil is now being poured around the tree, gently rock it back and forth to allow the new soil to spread evenly around the roots. After the earth has been slightly firm, it is better to place a watering rim around the entire trunk and then water the tree vigorously.
Tree care afterwards
Particular stability with upright growth can be achieved if you place a support post next to the tree that reaches just below the treetop. At this point it is connected with a coconut cord, which is attached like a figure eight to keep the distance between the pole and the trunk. In the period that follows, regular water additions are particularly important, which also ensure that root suckers develop again. In autumn it is better to completely avoid additional mineral fertilization of trees, since the still young roots in particular are extremely sensitive to salt. The first fertilizer can be applied when vegetation begins next spring. It is currently sufficient if you cover the ground with a mixture of bark mulch and some wood chips (€23.53). This promotes soil fertility, counteracts drying out of the soil and suppresses weed growth.