From Ground: Start by watering the valley oak plant until the soil is damp. Dig a generous trench around the plant using your shovel, ensuring that you do not damage the root ball. Slowly and carefully work the shovel underneath the root ball. Gradually lift the valley oak out from the original location, making sure the root ball remains as intact as possible.
From Pot: If the valley oak is in a pot, begin by watering it. Gently tip the pot sideways and carefully ease out the valley oak. If the roots have grown into the shape of the pot, loosen them gently with your hands before removing the valley oak.
From Seedling Tray: If transplanting seedlings, fill each cell of the tray with water. This allows the seedlings to slide out more easily. Once soaked, turn the tray upside down and gently tap it until the valley oak seedlings slide out. Be careful to hold the seedlings by their leaves and not their stems.
