Transplanting large trees

[mary]

I live in Pittsburgh,PA, and the Phipps Plant Conservatory is transplanting two large trees sometime in the next week or so. I would say the trees are at least fifty feet high. I was wondering if this was a good time to transplant the trees. Also, is it better to transplant trees when they are dormant, rather than when they have leaves on. Although the trees are only being moved around fifty yards, it should be fun to watch.

Thanks

Tom

[David J Bockman]

Actually, no, it's a terrible time-- I'm surprised at the Phipps if they're doing it now-- it must be some sort of emergency.

The only favorable fact is that in high summer trees and shrubs can become somewhat torpid and sluggish, thus reducing transpiration somewhat.

Dave

transplanting

[mary]

From what I understand they are moving the trees to make way for an expansion of their building.

[Dave Gower]

transplanting

Conifers, yes. This is the best time because it gives them a chance to establish new roots before winter.

Deciduous trees are normally transplanted after they go dormant, but a large commercial mover has, I understand, chemicals they can use to reduce transplant shock.