There are many reasons why it may be necessary to dig up and move a lilac: be it because the current location has long since become too small and the shrub too large, be it because it does not really like the chosen place or simply because you would rather build a terrace there. No matter the reason: It is important that you always remove all the roots, otherwise the plant will sprout from them again.
The older the lilac, the more complicated the transplanting
Older lilac often does not tolerate transplanting
If the lilacs are to be preserved when digging up and moving, you should think twice about this measure, especially in the case of an old specimen. Despite its robustness and tendency to let numerous shoots sprout from the roots, old trees often respond to transplanting with subsequent death. This is mainly due to the fact that such a project destroys a lot of roots and the tree that has established itself at its former location also has difficulties getting used to it - quite apart from the fact that the now weakened lilac is a "found food" for all kinds of pests and insects represents diseases and has nothing more to oppose them.
Caution: Do not simply saw off the trunk of the lilac!
If, on the other hand, you only want to dig up the old lilac to remove it (and not move it!), make sure that the roots are removed as completely as possible. If you just cut down the tree and leave the rootstock in the ground, you can soon look forward to numerous root suckers sprouting from the ground within a radius of several meters.
Dig up and move lilacs - That's how it's done
When digging up and transplanting the lilacs, it is best to proceed as follows:
- First cut the tree or shrub down generously - at least by a third.
- Now cut off the root ball with a spade.
- The radius should be about the same as the crown diameter before pruning.
- Drive the spade leaf deep into the earth.
- Now loosen the root ball by gently jerking it back and forth with a digging fork.
- Lift the root ball and plant out of the ground.
- Dig a planting hole twice the size of the root ball.
- Slurry this with plenty of water.
- Mix the excavation with compost and sawdust.
- Plant the lilacs again and water them well.
tips
The root suckers are not only a big nuisance, but can also be used for propagation.