From Ground: Start by
watering the swamp white oak plant fairly generously. Then using a shovel, dig down in a circular manner about 2 feet away from the plant's trunk. This is to avoid damaging the roots. The depth would depend on the plant’s size, but generally is at least a shovel’s length. Once you feel that enough earth has been removed around the swamp white oak, slowly and carefully lift the plant and its surrounding soil, and place it on a tarp for transporting.
From Pot: If swamp white oak has been grown in a pot, ensure that the soil around the plant is moist by watering it. Then carefully tip the pot on its side and gently remove the swamp white oak by slightly tapping the bottom. Handle the plant cautiously to prevent damage to the plant and its roots.
From Seedling Tray: For younger swamp white oak plants in a seedling tray, make sure the soil is moist, then gently loosen the soil around the plant using a small tool like a spade. Carefully lift the plant, ensuring that its root system is complete and intact, before moving on to transplanting.