From Ground: Initially, water the eastern hemlock plant to make the soil damp which makes it easier to dig up. Using a shovel, dig a generous trench around the plant, making sure you go deep enough to fully encapsulate the root ball. Gently work the gardening fork under the root ball to lift the plant out while keeping it whole. Place the plant on a tarp or into a wheelbarrow for transport.
From Pot: If eastern hemlock is in a pot, watering the plant first will keep the root ball together. Gently tip the pot on its side and cautiously slide the plant out, making sure to support the plant at its base to avoid stem damage.
From Seedling Tray: Lightly water the eastern hemlock seedlings and let it drain to tidy up the soil. Carefully remove the plant by pushing it from below, if accessible, or use a small tool or your fingers to gently lift it out of the cell, while making sure to support the stem.
