Tree removal

I bought 2 bushes 10 yrs ago, but did not realise that they would turn out to be trees. Approx 15ft high, they are now blocking the sun from part of my garden. I was wondering if they can be moved to allow someone else the pleasure they have given me over the years, or must I cut them down. I thought they were Canadian Maples for some reason. The leaves are deep burgundy, and little pink flowers appear for a few weeks twice per year. Can anyone help me.

 

I rather doubt they can be moved without a lot of effort and preparation. First you would want to find someone close by to give them to (!) then in spring/early summer you should dig to at least a full spades depth all the way round the tree at approx. 70cm radius making sure you sever any roots you encounter. Then go have a well earned drink and wait for a year. Next autumn dig the plants up, this time using a radius of apporx 80cm, and only severing the deeper roots when you get to them. The things should then come out ok. They will need to be 'rootballes' or the roots tied with the soil on them into hessian sacks or even polythene for transport, and the tops trimmed back and tied up into a bundle.

Or you could chop them down.

 

Thanks jazid. I was hoping I could save them, but I will have to chop them down as I want to plant some more fruit trees. I'll try and take a few cuttings so I won't feel so bad. I'll keep your advice on file so I know what to do in future. Thanks again, tailsey