Marianne's Response
How to transplant a mature Pomegranate tree
Hello Marianne,
An old neighbor in Cerritos, CA zone 10b was going to cut down a 6-10 yr old Pomegranate tree. I’m going to dig it out and plant it in Beaumont, CA zone 9b. The tree is about 13′ tall and about 6′-8′ wide. Trimmed last year, full of fruit this year. Any advice on digging out, transporting, and planting at home? If he can wait would it be best to wait until early next year instead? Thank you for your help.
Posted by mkay0314 on October 18, 2015
Marianne's Response
What a lovely and optimistic idea. The tree will transplant best in the fall or winter when the weather is cooler, so start by soaking the soil overnight. Then dig a trench all around the tree as far out as the span of the branches, or at least 3 feet from the trunk - 4 feet would be better. Get a tarp ready, and when you uproot the tree slide it on the tarp. You will need strong help or a machine to do this. Wrap the tarp around the damp root ball and secure with a rope or duct tape. Transport immediately and slide the tree off the tarp and into the new planting hole. Make sure the soil is moist by filling the planting hole with water the night before. Plant at same depth as before, keep soil moist, and add a mulch to shade the roots. Pamper with water all next summer.
Good luck,
Marianne Binetti
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