Old trees should not be transplanted - says an old proverb. That is only partly true. In principle, old pear trees can also be transplanted. The main problems are the size of the tree and its root system.

Transplant a pear tree - what to consider?

The younger a tree is, the easier it is to transplant. The trunk and crown of the tree are usually not too thick and heavy. Younger trees grow back more easily.

Transplanting older trees is very time-consuming because of the thick and heavy trunks. The root system has the same diameter as the tree crown. An old pear tree can weigh several tons. Transport is not possible without technical aids.

The best season for transplanting

Spring or fall are best for transplanting a pear tree. In the spring, the tree sprout again and thus develops new roots more quickly. In autumn it takes a break to gather strength for new roots. In summer it is usually too warm and too dry.

This is how a pear tree is transplanted

It is important that the root system is not damaged when transplanting. Torn or broken roots prevent rooting.

A circle is cut off around the tree in the circumference of the tree crown. With a tree crown of about six meters in diameter, start cutting off three meters from the tree trunk.

Depending on the age of the tree and the substrate, you may need to dig up to two meters deep to expose the roots.

Plant the pear tree in the new location

  • Dig a planting hole
  • Loosen soil in the subsoil
  • If necessary, incorporate some mature compost
  • Use pear trees with or without soil
  • face earth
  • Install support posts
  • Water well

The new planting hole should be a little wider and deeper than the previous one.

Plant the pear tree as deep as it was previously. Bare-rooted trees need to be watered for several hours before planting.

tips and tricks

There is no guarantee that the pear tree will grow in its new location. It is therefore important to consider whether the tree really needs to be transplanted. A strong pruning is often enough.

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