How to successfully move mature palms????

[Jodie]

We’ve recently moved and have four palms (12-15ft tall) in the yard, I’m hoping we can use them in the bbq area. Can they be successfully moved? What time of year should they be transplanted (cool Mediterranean climate, no snow or frost, wet winter-dryish summer)? I don’t know the species or age but they seem reasonably healthy,  photos attached if you’d like to see them. All advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks Jo

[Jim in Los Altos]

Trachycarpus fortunei (Windmill Palms) They can be moved successfully. Get as big a root ball as possible. They transplant fairly well with short term growth setback. They can be moved in the winter in your mild area or Spring. Keep them well watered after moving them to their new spots. 

[SeanK]

How tall are these four?

[Jodie]

Hi SeanK, they’re 12-15ft tall.

 

[Jodie]

Thanks for the advice Jim.  We’ll try moving them May/June 2025 (our late autumn/early winter). I like the thought of repurposing mature plants, it’s like gifting extra years to the garden.  P.S. I looked at “Las Palmas Design” f.book page, lovely landscaping and design.   

Edited February 4, 2024 by Jodie

[SeanK]

  On 2/4/2024 at 1:12 AM, Jodie said:

Hi SeanK, they’re 12-15ft tall.

 

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You'll need a crane.

[Harry’s Palms]

Yes, palms can be quite heavy and you should be prepared for that . Just be careful and have help , you should be ok. I once had to use my pick up to move a couple of Queen palms for my neighbor. I would also recommend keeping the palms fairly well watered prior to the move as well. It will help when you dig them up. On larger palms you can dip a moat around the palm deep enough to start cutting into the root ball. The trench should be about 18-20” out from the trunk. Then fill the trench with a top soil blend , soak with water, and this will make it easier to get the final rest of the tree dug up when you move it . You can start this process a month or so before the move and it will reduce the shock of  transplanting. Good luck and enjoy the journey. 

[Jodie]

We’ll use the moat method you suggest. I can see how it will make the move a less traumatic event for all concerned:).