Projected weight of the tree. This mass is understood to be the total mass of the whole tree and the earth forming the root ball. Much of this mass is made up of land, therefore, determining the expected size of the root ball is quite important for the entire tree movement operation. It is generally accepted, that the radius of the root ball of the transplanted tree should correspond to the circumference of the trunk as measured 30 cm above the ground. The height of the body is usually from 1/3 the diameter of the body, for trees with a shallow root system, do 1/2 or even 3/4 - to trees that root more vertically. Approximate dimensions of the root ball and the weight of transplanted trees depending on the diameter are given in the table.
The required diameter and height of the root ball depends on the thickness of the trunk and the approximate weight of the tree
| Diameter
the trunk [cm] |
The dimensions of the root ball: | Approximate weight of the tree with the root ball [kg] | |
| diameter
[cm] |
thickness
[cm] |
||
| 10 | 60 | 20-30 | 135-170 |
| 15 | 90 | 30-40 | 450-500 |
| 20 | 120 | 40-60 | 1000-1600 |
| 25 | 160 | 50-80 | 2300-3800 |
| 30 | 190 | 60-90 | 3200-4700 |
| 40 | 250 | 80-100 | 9200-11 700 |
| 50 | 320 | 100-110 | 19 000-21 000 |
The dimensions of the root ball are provided for guidance in this table, because they can change depending on the conditions. Yes, e.g. the diameter of the root ball of a tree with an extremely shallow root system can be increased, while slightly reducing its thickness. The soil density was used to calculate the mass of the tree and the earth mass presented in the table 2000 kg/m³, while the mass of the tree was determined as 25% the mass of the earth. Loose humus and not very moist soil may have a density 1200 kg/m³, on the other hand, clay and moist soil may even have a density 2400 kg/m³.
The calculation of the mass M of a lump on the basis of its actual dimensions and the current density of the earth can be performed according to the formula:
M = π · r² · h · c
wherein:
r - solid radius,
h - height of the solid,
c – earth density.
To obtain the mass of the lump with the tree, add to this result 25% mass of the lump. It follows from the data presented in the table, that the weight of the tree with the root ball increases with the growth of the trunk diameter.
Technical conditions of transport. Transplanting medium-sized trees with a root ball almost always requires special equipment or machinery. Trees weighing over 3000 kg already pose considerable difficulties. Tractors or even trucks may suffice to move them, while transporting such trees over longer distances requires heavy, specially prepared vehicles. Trees can be moved or carried vertically for a short distance. However, for longer distances, trees have to be transported lying down due to the different cables crossing the roads. Driving on the road also requires reducing the diameter of the crown by tying or trimming branches.
Care conditions. Transplanting a tree takes a lot of labor and equipment, therefore, after transplanting, trees cannot be exposed to damage and require particularly careful care. Providing such care is also important when deciding whether to replant a large tree, like all factors discussed here.