http://jacksonville.com/lifestyles/home_and_garden/2010-01-26/story/garden_qa_how_to_successfully_move_a_citrus_tree

Garden Q&A: How to successfully move a citrus tree

By Becky Wern
Story updated at 2:55 PM on Monday, Jan. 25, 2010

I have an 8-foot-tall citrus tree with orange, grapefruit and lemon grafted onto it. I need to move it to my backyard, so that I can get some of the fruit that is disappearing. Is it safe to move it?

It's not easy to find one of these trees, so you need to try to make sure it survives the trip.

Slice into the ground with a shovel, cutting straight downward. Go all the way around the tree, about 18 inches from the trunk. This severs the roots. During the next six weeks or so, the tree will grow new roots inside the circle. These roots will be more likely to survive the trip and be ready to carry water and nutrients once you get the tree moved.

Dig the new hole before you dig up the tree. When the tree is out of the ground, put it on a tarp or large piece of cardboard. Be gentle. Remember that the tender roots are exposed. Dropping the tree or handling it roughly will kill roots.

Plant the tree high and away from the roof runoff, as citrus does not tolerate wet feet. Water every few days, soaking the root area well until the tree is well established.

When the tree shows new growth, you can begin fertilizing, applying small amounts monthly through September.