a ring stand splits to encompass a tree to be transplanted and then is formed back into a circular ring in approximately concentric relationship to the tree . a plurality of curved hollow stanchions extend upwardly from the stand , and a curved spoon is slidably mounted with respect to each of the stanchions and the stand for movement between a position above the earth and a position down into the earth to join with all of the other spoons to separate from the earth a tree ball consisting of the tree &# 39 ; s roots and the earth surrounding those roots inside of the spoons . to power the spoons , a rack is provided on an inwardly facing portion of each of the spoons and a matching rack is provided on an outwardly facing portion inside of each of the hollow stanchions . pinions are situated in meshing relationship to each rack , and a hydraulic linear motor is provided to move the pinions to cause a movement by the associated spoons to be twice that of the pinions . power means including a vehicle are provided to lift the ring stand , spoons and stanchions and the tree and tree ball from the earth ; to tip this assemblage ; to transport it to the location where it is to be transplanted ; and to deposit it into a previously prepared opening of the same size .