From Ground: Try to water the evergreen oak plant a day before transplanting to soften the soil without making it soggy. Then, using a spade or shovel, start digging a wide, shallow trench around the root ball of the plant. Keep the plant's root ball intact by carefully inserting the spade underneath and gently loosening it from the ground.
From Pot: Water the evergreen oak plant in its pot a few hours before you plan on transplanting. Then, slowly tilt the pot sideways while gently tugging on the base of the plant. The plant should slide out with its root ball and soil intact.
From Seedling Tray: Water the tray ahead of transplanting. To remove the evergreen oak seedling, gently squeeze the bottom of the cell while cradling the top of the seedling with your other hand. The seedling should come out with its root ball and soil intact, with minimal damage to the plant.