A healthy tree in the wrong place doesn’t have to be cut down. Whether a live oak is too close to a new foundation, a magnolia is blocking a driveway expansion, or you simply want to keep a tree that would otherwise be lost to construction, Risk Tree Service can move it. Our arborists transplant established trees using proper root pruning, ball-and-burlap preparation and careful aftercare so the tree re-establishes in its new location.
What we transplant
- Live oaks, magnolias, crape myrtles, Japanese maples, citrus and other landscape trees
- Trees in the path of new construction, pools, additions or driveways
- Specimen trees being moved between properties
- Nursery-grown trees that need professional installation at the new site
Our transplanting process
- Evaluation — we assess species, size, health and the new site’s soil, drainage and sun to confirm the tree is a good candidate.
- Root pruning — weeks to months ahead of the move, we prune the root system to encourage a compact, fibrous root ball.
- Ball and burlap — the root ball is dug, wrapped in burlap and wire-basketed to hold soil and roots intact.
- The move — the tree is lifted with a tree spade, telehandler or crane and set at the correct depth in a properly prepared hole.
- Aftercare — staking, mulching, a watering schedule and follow-up visits through the first growing season.
Best time to transplant in South Louisiana
The dormant season — roughly November through February — gives the tree the best chance to recover before summer heat. Evergreens such as live oak and magnolia can be moved in late winter; we schedule each job around the species and the weather.
Why Risk Tree Service
- ISA Certified Arborists and Louisiana State Arborist License #1986
- The right equipment for the job, from tree spades to cranes
- Soil, fertilization and mycorrhizae programs to support establishment
- One crew for removal, relocation, planting and follow-up care
Have a tree worth saving? Call (504) 667-3650 (New Orleans) or (985) 205-8554 (Northshore) for a transplant evaluation.