Tree Planting & Tree Transplanting Services

Trees provide an abundance of benefits to you, your property, the environment, and your community. Our tree transplanting services and new tree planting services are a professional option for homeowners who want the shade, beauty, and value increase of new trees properly established. The ISA-certified arborists at Elite Tree Care are experts at determining the best trees for your property or transplanting mature trees, with strategic planting services that help you cultivate thriving green spaces on your Pennsylvania property.

Why Plant Trees Professionally?

ISA-certified arborists know the best trees to plant in Pennsylvania and the conditions and tree care practices needed to help them thrive. 

Using specialized insight into regional tree species and conditions, Elite’s professional arborists provide tailored tree recommendations based on your landscape’s soil, drainage, sun exposure, and proximity to structures. They also oversee the entire planting process, from soil preparation to installing and caring for your new tree. The result is a much lower risk of early tree failure, plus on-demand access to local tree experts as committed as you are to seeing your trees succeed. 

What Is Tree Transplanting?

Tree transplanting, or the moving of trees from one spot of your yard to another, is a more complex process than planting a nursery tree, and often requires the use of professional equipment. 

Elite Tree Care’s tree transplanting services ensure the establishment and ultimate survival of your tree, and are rooted in decades of regional transplantation experience. If our certified arborists conclude that a certain tree on your property will fare better in a different place, we’ll handle the process from start to finish, with tree moving services that include new location recommendations, root ball preparation, transplant timing, and aftercare. 

Tree Planting Services

Our tree planting services ensure you invest in a tree that will thrive in your location, and always begin with species recommendations specific to your site conditions and goals. 

Key factors in choosing the right tree for your Pennsylvania landscape include an evaluation of a tree’s mature size, growth rate, soil tolerance, and sun/shade requirements, as well as its intended purpose (for example, shade, screening, or ornamental). 

Some of the best long-term performing trees in Pennsylvania are native species such as oaks, maples, serviceberry, and flowering dogwood.

Best Time to Plant or Transplant Trees in Pennsylvania

For most deciduous trees in Pennsylvania, fall is the best time for planting. This gives roots time to establish before winter, and without the stress of summer heat. For transplants, aim for late fall through early spring, when the tree is dormant, and there’s a lower risk of root disturbance stress.

Spring planting is also viable for many species, particularly container trees from nurseries. For best results, avoid planting in extreme heat or drought conditions without supplemental irrigation. 

Our Planting Process

Professional tree care services from Elite combine comprehensive site assessments with proper planting techniques to help create beautiful, lasting landscapes. 

What we do:

• Site Assessments: An ISA-certified arborist will evaluate soil, drainage, sun exposure, and proximity to structures before recommending a tree species and location.

• Planting: Proper planting techniques ensure new trees establish well, and include planting to the correct depth, back-filling with amended soil, mulching, and immediate post-planting irrigation. 

• Aftercare Guidance: Receive expert guidance on watering schedules and establishment care after planting. 

Visit our Plant Health Care page to learn about ongoing fertilization and care options. 

Post-Planting Care

Elite’s tree transplanting services don’t end at planting. We’re also available to support establishment and ongoing care as your new trees take root.

Some tips for post-planting success:

• Actively and consistently water your new tree, especially for the first 1-2 growing seasons. 
• Mulch around the tree to retain moisture, moderate soil temperature, and reduce competition from grass. 
• Let roots establish by abstaining from heavy fertilizing in your tree’s first season. 

Transplanting Larger or Mature Trees

For homeowners who want to renovate their landscape without losing the trees they love, Elite’s tree transplanting services include expert support for the complex and risky process of moving established trees. 

Transplanting of larger, mature trees (specimens with trunk diameters (calipers) over 3”) requires specialized equipment and careful root pruning preparation. Likewise, not every tree is a good candidate for transplant, and factors like timing, root ball size, and aftercare are all critical to success, or lack thereof. 

With a focus on tree preservation, our arborists will advise honestly throughout the transplantation process, in addition to handling the transplant itself. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tree planting and tree transplanting?

Tree planting typically involves installing a new nursery tree or sapling in a permanent location. Tree transplanting moves an established tree (one already rooted in your yard) from one spot to another. Transplanting is more complex, requires proper timing and root preparation, and benefits greatly from professional handling.

What trees grow well in Chester County, PA?

Native Pennsylvania species like red oak, sugar maple, serviceberry, and flowering dogwood are excellent choices in Chester County. They’re adapted to local soils and climate, support native wildlife, and typically outperform non-native ornamentals over the long term. An Elite arborist can recommend the best options for your specific site.

When is the best time to plant a tree?

In Pennsylvania, fall is generally ideal for planting most deciduous species due to mild temperatures and reliable rainfall that help roots establish before winter. Spring is also a good window. Summer planting is possible but requires diligent watering to prevent heat stress.

Can you transplant a large, mature tree?

Yes, though success depends on species, tree size, site conditions, and careful preparation. Trees with a trunk diameter above 3” require specialized equipment and advanced root pruning. Elite’s arborists can assess your tree and advise on feasibility before committing to the project.