transplanting a palm tree

[Rene Siracusa]

I do not believe that palms have spreading roots, but rather a root ball that is fairly compact. If I were wanting to dig up and move a sizable palm, I would dig and prepare the new hole first and plant asap. As with most trees, I would make sure there is some soil or cinder in the bottom of the hole, water, place palm and backfill. If your palm is in a windy area or top-heavy, I would suggest crutches or guy-lines to secure it until it is established.