|
Fri, Apr 20, 12 at 10:18
| I have several swamp white oak trees in Dallas that were container grown (65 gal, 4" dia) for several years (height approximately 15') before being transplanted into a clay dominant soil three years ago. The trees manage a fairly healthy crop of leaves each year but have not had any new branch growth. I am assuming that the roots are severely root bound due to being grown in a container for so long and were not properly prepared prior to being transplanted. I am assuming worst case scenario by the people who transplanted the trees meaning they did not attempt to break out the roots, left the wire basket in place, dug the hole only wide enough for the root ball, had spade-smooth walls in the newly dug hole, etc. I was thinking that I need to basically dig out around the root ball, remove the tree, cut and manipulate the existing root system, prepare a proper hole, and replace the tree. What are my chances that the tree will survive and grow into a healthy, long-lived tree? Am I better off to just remove the tree and replace it correctly with new one? Thanks! |
Follow-Up Postings:
|
| If they have been stunted for years it might be as well to start over with fresh stock that has had a more fortunate history. Specimens in poor condition at planting time often fail to make good. But it depends on what the specific problem(s) is with yours, whether all those difficulties you listed are in fact occurring. If they instead just need to be fertilized or mulched, for instance, then it might be possible for them to spring back if one of those needs is successfully met. |
|
| I have only had 1 experience with SWO and below is what the roots of a 4-5 year old tree in a 5 gallon container looked like after removal. I can only imagine how much worse it would be on a 4" diameter tree with a huge root system choking itself to death. I should note it did throw out new growth about a foot and half or so and had a pair of acorns if I recall correctly even with these circling roots and being buried about 3" or so too deep in the pot.
|
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Trees Forum
Instructions
- You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
- HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
- No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.