How to Dig Up a Lilac Tree
- 1). Decide on a location for the new plant before removing it from its current location, thereby limiting the amount of time the plant will spend out of the soil. Lilac trees need a minimum of six hours a day of direct sunlight and a good drainage.
- 2). Dig around the plant and fairly deep underneath it to remove it from the ground.
- 3). Remove much of the soil from around the roots once the lilac tree is up and out of the ground. Use water or lightly shake the roots to remove the soil.
- 4). Dig the hole in the new location, making sure it is large enough to freely accommodate the lilac tree's root system.
- 5). Situate the plant with the roots spread in a vertical position in the ground. Plant the tree with the roots 1 inch beneath the surface of the soil. Spread out the roots and add soil a little bit at a time. Pressing firmly on the soil removes any air pockets and reinforces the support for the plant. Gently handle the tree while replanting. Damaging the roots severely decreases the plant's chance of survival.
- 6). Water gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the roots are in contact with the soil. Additional water may be required, depending on weather and soil conditions. Add mulch, such as wood and bark chips, to keep out weeds and retain moisture.