What is the best time of year to move a palm tree?

Question

Its about 5 ft tall (not including fronds) and it is a windmill palm.

We want to move it to a place in our backyard where there is more sun, but what is the best time of year to do so?

We live on the west coast of British Columbia so we have a Sub-Mediterranean climate.

Answer 1

We had to plant our palm tree into the ground,and it was about as big as your is now.We live in So.California so the weather is much different,but it doesn't matter where you live all plants can be transplanted when they are in their bare root stage.That means ,when they are dormant for the season( no or little growth). I would wait until late September - March or early April. Then make sure you mulch the hole with some good potting soil mixed with sand before putting it into the hole.After that ,use "Quick Start".That prevents transplant shock.You can feed it the following spring with some Palm Feed.It will grow very fast,so consider that before you plant it.That is one thing I thought I did,but now ours is so big,I'm starting to worry.Good Luck,Byee

Answer 2

I would move it during the hottest part (growing) of the year.  Keep well watered at first then wean off.  

Answer 3

The best time to transplant is in the winter months try to dig as big a hole as you can (easier said then done). If you have the time, with a spade cut the ground around the palm where you will be digging a few months before you move it. This will encourage new roots to grow around the palm and give it a better chance of survival.