Relocating one citrus trees

Question From: 
Carol in  Bowal,  Bowral SA

 

Nature of problem: 
Relocating one Meyer lemon and one Tahitian lime to a more open spot

 

Type of Plant (if known): 
Meyer lemon and Tahitian lime about 1.4 m high

 

Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself): 
some spindly branches

 

Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type: 
Bowral soil

 

How often do you water the plant:
as required

 

How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
currently at east side of hedge

 

What type of plant is it:
see comments pls

 

How long since you planted it:
2011 October

 

Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
yes with citrus fertiliser, seasol

 

Is the plant indoors or outdoors: 
outdoors

 

What other treatments have you given the plant: 
seasol,

Upload photo if available: 

Other Comments: 
Both citrus are not growing well. A grapefruit and orange tree in more open space nearby are doing quite well. Wish to relocate lime and lemon into a more open spot. Can I do it now in mid January, or when is the best time? When I do need to relocate them, pls indicate the steps involved.
thanks for advice

 

Answer: Hi Carol,  Citrus pretty much demand full sun all day to do well. The best time to move them is mid Winter, ie July/August. Moving them now is not a good idea. Just dig them up in Winter with a root ball with a diameter about equal to half the height of the tree. Plant it at the same depth in the soil as it was before moving and water it in very well. On the BBY website there are full details on moving a tree or shrub.  Don