How to care for and transplant a corkscrew hazel tree

The corkscrew hazel tree is an unusual tree or shrub in that it only grows to be at the most about 3 m (10 feet) high. The branches do not grow in straight sections but in contorted and twisted turns, making it an interesting landscape plant. It is a hazelnut-bearing tree and the nuts although small are edible. Since it is a cold-hardy plant, it grows all over the UK.

Transplant the corkscrew hazel in the early spring if possible, before the flowers are showing. Dig it up from its site with a garden spade, starting about 7.5 cm (3 inches) out from the base of the plant. Work around the plant, removing the soil straight down and then cutting in under the roots of the plant, trying to keep the root mass intact. Lift the tree from the ground and lay it on its side.

Prepare the new site for the corkscrew hazel in a spot where it will get part sun and part shade and have about 1.5 m (5 feet) of space from other plants. Dig the hole at least as large as the root ball of the tree but a little larger if possible, so the roots have room to grow.

Set the hazel tree in the hole and add about 30 cm (12 inches) of soil. Tamp the soil down with a tamping pole or the heel of your boot to make good soil to root contact. Continue to fill the hole until the soil is level with the surrounding ground.

Water the tree with about 9 litres (2 gallons) of water immediately after planting and then every few days to keep the soil damp until it gets established. Discontinue watering after the first month.

Mulch around the base of the tree with 7.5 to 15 cm (3 to 6 inches) of a ground root mulch to show off the tree as well as to help conserve moisture and reduce weeds.