When it comes to building iconic properties, creating community-focused projects, or managing functional landscapes, relocating large, mature trees can be an invaluable solution. The ability to move massive trees and maintain established landscapes offers both practical and aesthetic benefits.
At JD Thornton Nurseries, we specialize in delivering, installing, and relocating large canopy trees—and today, we’re sharing the top 5 reasons why relocation beats replanting mature landscapes. If you're in the Lake Okeechobee area—whether a government agency, developer, luxury hotel, university, corporate campus, or large landowner—and need help relocating or replanting a large tree, we're here to help.
Some projects demand immediate attention—and replanting new trees just doesn’t cut it when you’re under pressure to deliver results fast. Mature trees provide instant beauty, shade, and striking visual appeal, making them ideal for governments revitalizing public spaces, hotels enhancing resort properties, and corporate campuses creating distinguished environments for employees and visitors.
When your landscape serves as a reflection of your brand or community, relocating large specimen trees delivers immediate value. Our team at JD Thornton Nurseries, for example, successfully relocated a gargantuan 153,000-pound Buttonwood tree, bringing immediate maturity to a high-profile location.
Around regions like Lake Okeechobee, the ecological value of mature trees goes far beyond aesthetics. Large canopy trees contribute to local biodiversity, supporting birds, wildlife, and valuable shade for surrounding flora. For large-scale development or public projects, removing established trees can lead to environmental concerns or community criticism.
Relocating instead of removing shows stakeholders that you’re committed to sustainability. Whether you’re clearing the way for infrastructure or shifting trees within a golf course, relocation allows you to preserve the landscape’s integrity without compromising progress.
Large-scale projects demand fiscal responsibility—and that’s where tree relocation shines. While relocation involves upfront investment, the long-term costs of planting and growing new trees from scratch often outweigh the alternative. Mature trees require significantly less maintenance and irrigation during their lifecycle compared to newly planted ones, leading to measurable savings for government agencies, developers, and institutions.
When you partner with JDT Nurseries, we ensure that your trees continue to thrive after relocation, eliminating costly mistakes or inefficiencies associated with untrained crews.
In hospitality or event spaces, shade matter just as much as aesthetics. Guests want shaded walking paths, cool lounging areas, or reliable sound buffers for outdoor activities. Waiting years for trees to mature is impractical when your spaces need to operate immediately, which is why mature tree relocation is your best bet.
From office park comfort zones to luxury venues hosting private events, your ability to position large trees strategically saves time and aligns perfectly with operational goals. JD Thornton Nurseries specializes in preserving tree health while delivering these functional benefits immediately.
Moving massive trees isn’t a job to be left to amateurs—design errors, equipment limitations, or improper replanting techniques can result in irreparable damage to both the tree and your property. JD Thornton Nurseries handles every project with exceptional care and customized solutions, saving you from high-stakes risks and delays.
For infrastructure projects requiring precision or public institutions relying on sustainable landscaping, our team guarantees success every step of the way—ensuring your investment pays off, both now and in the future.
When it comes to big trees (like Banyan trees or Oak trees), when you need help relocating, installing, or purchasing, JD Thornton Nurseries offers unparalleled expertise and efficiency for large specimen tree's in southern Florida. From municipalities to developers and luxury resorts, our advanced equipment and professional team ensure your trees thrive in their new homes while your project moves forward seamlessly.
Whether you’re handling a community park, a corporate space, or a multi-acre property, we’re here to give your landscapes the advantage of maturity without compromising sustainability or aesthetics.