How to Transplant Dwarf Maples

Find a spot for your dwarf maple based on the sunlight patterns and amount of sunlight each part of the yard receives. Dwarf maple trees do best when they receive sunlight during the early part of the day. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves and dull their otherwise brilliant colors.

Remove the tree from the nursery container by carefully cutting the container away from the root ball. Start by scoring the top of the container at each side, then carefully cut the container away using a razor blade knife. Pull the nursery container away from the plant and set the tree in a shady spot. Do not let the root ball dry out. Transplant the tree as soon as possible after removing it from the nursery container.

Measure the width of the root ball and dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep. If the root ball measures 5 inches across and 8 inches deep, the hole should be 10 inches across and 8 inches deep. Loosen the soil on the sides of the hole. This makes it easier for the dwarf maple to spread its roots and dig into the soil once it is planted.

Add a layer of compost to the soil inside the hole. Your transplanted dwarf maple will need plenty of nourishment to take root and grow. Use more compost if you have a hard clay type soil, since the compost will help the soil drain more efficiently.

Place the root ball into the hole and make sure the dwarf maple is sitting straight. Fill the hole back up with dirt until it is just covering the root collar. Water the transplanted tree thoroughly. Water the tree regularly to help it get off to a good start in its new location.