Is Tree Spade Transplanting a Viable Method for Forest Management and Landscape Diversification

[MikePhua]

The Evolution of Tree Spade Technology
Tree spades emerged in the mid-20th century as a mechanized solution to transplanting mature trees with intact root balls. Originally developed for nursery operations, the technology evolved to serve landscaping, forestry, and urban greening projects. Manufacturers like Big John, Vermeer, and Dutchman pioneered hydraulic spade designs capable of extracting trees with diameters ranging from 2 to over 10 inches, preserving root integrity and minimizing transplant shock.
By the 1990s, tree spades were available in skid steer-mounted, loader-mounted, and truck-mounted configurations. The market expanded rapidly, with thousands of units sold across North America and Europe. Today, tree spades are used not only for commercial tree sales but also for ecological restoration, habitat diversification, and land value enhancement.
Choosing the Right Carrier for Tree Spade Operations
The success of a tree spade operation depends heavily on the carrier machine. Terrain, tree size, and project scale all influence the choice between skid steers, compact track loaders (CTLs), wheel loaders, and truck-mounted rigs.
Skid Steers and CTLs:

• Ideal for maneuvering in dense forests or rugged terrain
  
• Compatible with spades up to 50 inches in diameter
  
• Require counterweights or stabilizers to prevent tipping
  
• Limited downforce compared to larger machines
  

Wheel Loaders:

• Suitable for open areas and larger trees
  
• Provide better stability and hydraulic capacity
  
• Require more space and may cause ground disturbance
  

Truck-Mounted Units:

• Designed for urban or roadside transplanting
  
• Offer high mobility and integrated hydraulic systems
  
• Typically used by commercial tree relocation services
  

In one mountainous region of Idaho, contractors preferred CASE 465 skid steers with steel tracks and stabilizers for navigating steep terrain. Their 50-inch Big John spades allowed them to extract and resell trees while thinning overgrown parcels for resale.
Tree Size and Survival Rates
Tree survival after transplanting depends on root ball size, soil type, and post-transplant care. For trees with trunk diameters of 3 to 5 inches and heights between 20 to 40 feet, a spade size of 44 to 60 inches is recommended. Survival rates can exceed 90% if the tree is moved during dormancy and irrigated properly.
Key transplanting guidelines:

• Avoid relocating trees from shaded forests to open fields without acclimation
  
• Maintain soil moisture and mulch around the root zone
  
• Use anti-transpirants or shade cloth for sun-sensitive species
  
• Monitor for transplant shock symptoms such as leaf drop or dieback
  

A contractor in Iowa reported that moving trees from dense woods to open pasture often resulted in sun scald and root desiccation. He later adopted a phased relocation strategy, placing trees in semi-shaded holding areas before final planting.
Trailer-Mounted Tree Spades and Niche Applications
Trailer-mounted spades offer a middle ground between skid steer and truck-mounted systems. These rigs can be towed by pickups and deployed in remote areas without heavy equipment. While less common, they are ideal for small-scale forestry projects, cemetery landscaping, or private estate management.
One operator in Alberta spotted a trailer-mounted spade being towed behind a pickup and later discovered it was a custom-built unit designed for transplanting spruce trees in clay-heavy soil. The rig featured hydraulic outriggers and a 60-inch spade, allowing precise extraction without soil collapse.
Economic and Ecological Benefits of Tree Spading
Tree spading is not just a commercial venture—it can be a tool for ecological stewardship. Landowners use spades to:

• Thin overcrowded stands and reduce fire risk
  
• Introduce new species for biodiversity
  
• Reposition trees for aesthetic or functional purposes
  
• Preserve mature trees during construction
  

In New Mexico, a landowner used a tree spade to redistribute native pines across his property, increasing canopy coverage and improving erosion control. He also introduced new species to diversify the forest and enhance wildlife habitat.
Commercial operators charge between $100 to $200 per hour for tree spade services, depending on tree size and terrain. The investment can be offset by increased land value, reduced replanting costs, and faster landscape maturity.
Limitations and Practical Considerations
Despite its advantages, tree spading has limitations:

• Skid steers lack sufficient downforce for hard soils like clay
  
• Spade teeth may struggle to penetrate compacted or rocky ground
  
• Machines must be properly balanced to avoid tipping during extraction
  
• Legal restrictions may apply when working on public or forest service land
  

Operators should verify land use rights before transplanting trees from national forests or conservation areas. In some jurisdictions, unauthorized tree removal is considered illegal logging and may result in fines or land access revocation.
Conclusion
Tree spade transplanting is a powerful method for managing forest density, enhancing landscape design, and preserving mature trees. With the right equipment, proper technique, and ecological awareness, operators can achieve high survival rates and long-term benefits. Whether using a skid steer in rugged terrain or a truck-mounted rig for urban relocation, the key lies in understanding the biological and mechanical dynamics of tree movement. As landowners and contractors continue to seek sustainable solutions, tree spading remains a versatile and rewarding tool in the earthmoving arsenal.