For transplanting trees and shrubs, which soil approach is best?

• A. Import soil from elsewhere
• B. Use the soil that already exists on the site
• C. Backfill with mulch
• D. Use sandy soil from supplier

Answer: (B)

Use the soil that already exists on the site. Keeping the root zone in the same soil profile preserves drainage, moisture movement, and nutrient cycling, along with the beneficial soil organisms the plant relies on to establish. Introducing soil from elsewhere can bring pests, diseases, weed seeds, or a different pH and texture that clash with the site’s conditions and hinder root growth. Backfilling with mulch doesn’t provide a true soil medium for roots, and using sandy soil from a supplier creates a mismatch in texture and waterholding capacity unless it perfectly matches the site soil, which is rare. If the on-site soil is poor, amend it in place with compatible materials rather than replacing it entirely, so roots still have a familiar environment to grow into.