If you want or need to move your walnut tree, you have to dig up the plant. This is a very difficult and tedious task - after all, you are dealing with a strong taproot that shows only a few lateral and fine roots at the top. In this guide you will receive a short practical guide to digging up your walnut tree as well as additional tips and hints.
Great care must be taken when digging up the walnut
Important preliminary remark
With young trees, digging out is still relatively easy. But for a walnut that's already passed the six-foot mark, you're better off not digging up the tree unless there's an absolute need - for your sake and the health of the plant.
Note: Digging up and transplanting the walnut tree can result in years of stunted growth and partial loss of the crown.
Why dig up a walnut tree?
There are several reasons why it may be necessary to remove a walnut tree from its current location. As a rule, it is a matter of moving the plant to another place, since it is in its current "territory".
a) there are no suitable growing conditions or
b) is not welcome.
Regarding a) It sometimes happens that the walnut tree is placed in too narrow a space the first time - mostly out of inexperience. But the walnut takes up a lot of space, at least over the years. Walnut, on the other hand, is not particularly picky about soil. Moist, slightly sandy and deep soils are ideal for walnut trees, but they can also cope with other substrates (they just don't do well with waterlogging, poor ventilation and too much sand).
On b) The walnut may be threatening to grow beyond your own property, which displeases the neighbors or endangers road safety. Situations of this variety also necessitate digging up (and transplanting) the tree or else you will be in trouble with the law.
Digging up a walnut tree - instructions
- Use a sharp spade or an ax depending on the size of the tree.
- Dig up your walnut tree with plenty of pads. The taproot is very difficult to cut. You need strength and endurance to complete the task. Side stabbing with your chosen tool is the best method, as practice shows time and time again. Prick the pad deep - at least 50 centimeters.