Hi Mary,

Yes, it is possible to transplant a tree from the woods into a container, but it can be quite challenging and may not always be successful especially during this hot summer. Ideally, it would be best to wait until fall after leaf drop, then transplant it to its permanent location when it is in a dormant state so that it will only go through transplant shock once.

When you are ready to transplant, first tag the direction the sapling is facing with a ribbon prior to removal for its “sun orientation”. Then dig a trench around the sapling to loosen the soil, roughly 12-18 inches in diameter. Once the soil is loosened, gently dig underneath the sapling to lift it and try to keep as many of the roots intact as possible. This is crucial for minimizing transplant shock.. Once you’ve lifted the sapling, place it on a moistened piece of burlap or cloth to wrap around the roots to keep the root ball intact. Trim any damaged roots, but try to keep as much of the root system intact as you can. When moving it to the new location, be as gentle as possible to avoid damaging the roots and make certain that it is kept cool and moist.

The area selected for the transplant should have similar soil and light conditions. The planting hole should be at least as wide but only as deep as the root ball. Align the ribbon to the same direction as its previous location. This is called "sun orientation", and is important to observe because it eases the sapling's adaptation as it adjusts to the new location. Place the root system in the hole and fill with soil only up to the root collar making certain that the sapling is at the same depth as when you removed it. If seedlings are planted too deep, their roots may not get enough oxygen. If they are planted too shallow, some roots may dry out. Similarly, if air pockets remain around the roots due to poorly firmed soil, roots may dry out and die. Water the tree to let the soil settle naturally and then mulch the area around the tree but avoid mulch near the tree trunk. The mulch will help reduce water loss, prevent grass and weeds growing and keep the soil temperature warmer for longer in the fall. For the first year, the tree should be watered regularly in its new site.

You may want to consider a soil test. Soil test forms and instructions can be found on the UVM website: https://www.uvm.edu/extension/agricultural-and-environmental-testing-lab. Soil testing can provide you with useful information regarding pH and organic matter content and determine what amendments may be necessary.

Some websites that contain additional information:

https://extensiongardener.ces.ncsu.edu/2020/11/transplanting-trees-from-the-woods/

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/transplant-trees-from-woods.htm

https://extension.umn.edu/how/planting-and-transplanting-trees-and-shrubs

I hope this helps!