Transplanting Palms

[David Humphries]

Have posted this over at the Landscapertalk forum, but want to cover my bets.

 

An aqaintance has been asked to transplant a Palm from a clients current Garden which incidentally is a Diarmuid Gavin design, to his new property.

The Palm has approximately a dbh of 25cms and is 3m tall.

Was planted about 5/6 years ago.

Not sure of the local soil type.

Also not sure on the Species

 

The questions are; can Palms be transplanted succesfully?

How large is the root ball likely to be?

What tips if any has any one got for doing this?

 

Any post welcomed and appreciated.

 

 

David

[Peter]

I have moved a biggish Trachycarpus fortunei, not as big as that one. I would expect it to be this species if it is outdoors and single stemmed.

The root system is usually quite dense, almost like a fibrous conifer root system, but with thicker fleshy roots.

To preserve the root ball intact, which is the best option, I would guess you are looking at a lump approx 4 feet diameter and depending on soil type and water table, around a foot thick. Its going to be one heavy lift!

With a careful job, I would give it a 70% chance of survival.

Dont do it in frosty weather, as all the cut roots will really suffer, cover the root ball with damp sacking when it is in transit, guy it properly when you replant, and make sure it gets proper aftercare through the first summer, eg plenty of water.

 

And let us know how it goes!

[David Humphries]

 

And let us know how it goes!

 

Will do Peter, thanks for the advice. :wave:

[igottacabstar]

I've cut down several large Cordyline Australis palms in the past and the resulting logs have started growing again on top of my log pile! So I'm guessing if it's one of these then you should be okay transplanting it, as they're pretty tough!

[Peter]

Cordylines are as tough as old boots, but they aren't palms, despite their common name of cabbage palm.

[Peter]

Depending on much the moving job will cost, another option would be to buy another one for the new site.

Something of equivalent size should be available to the trade for around £800.

[Peter]

You could also ask these guys for advice. http://www.palmcentre.co.uk/Default.aspx

 

Dont be fooled by the glossy website, they have been growing palms for years and really know their stuff.

[Log-ologist]

I moved a chineese windmill palm a few years ago with great success. I will look for a little video and pictures.

 

Palms are best moved in warm weather. The rootball can be as little as 12" beyond the stem. Good prep of the new site is essential.

[Log-ologist]

more Chusan palm

[Log-ologist]

This is a short poor quality phone vid of the move.

 

cost of removal £ 80.00

 

sold and placed in pre dug hole on the way home. £ 280.00