We have large willow bushes planted too close to the house foundation by the builder. Can we successfully transplant these to another area in our yard now? Do the roots of these bushes go very deep? I keep these trimmed to about 5' high. Thanks for your help.
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Willow bushes
Submitted by kathy1923 on May 14, 2008 - 11:41am.
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It may not be the "optimal" time to move them now, but if you keep them watered after moving and cut them back in size (to make up for the root loss), it should be no problem.
Willows transplant and re-root very easily. The roots can go down deep but dont worry. Just use a sharp shovel and take about 6-12" of the soil around the base and about 12" deep. Place that on a tarp and slide it to the new hole.
If it were mine and in the way Id move it. Be sure not to put it anywhere near your sewer/septic line.
Also try this. Take a few branches you cut back and stick them in a pot and keep that soil moist. They should root in no time.
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Because your willows have already broken dormancy, now would not be the best time to move them. If you can, wait until fall or late winter. Cut the willows close to the ground, dig a 12" to 18" round root ball and transplant to your new spot. They should recover nicely.
If you can't wait until fall, you can follow the same procedure and keep well-watered.
Lee
Johnson County Extension Master Gardener