tree spades

1. Overview

Tree spade attachments allow skid steer loaders to dig, transplant, and replant trees and large shrubs with minimal root disturbance. These attachments use hydraulically operated blades to extract a root ball in a conical or truncated cone shape, enabling safe tree relocation and planting.

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2. Applications

• Tree and shrub transplanting (nursery or landscape)
• Root ball extraction for relocation or sale
• Replanting on job sites or land restoration projects
• Urban or residential landscaping projects
• Orchard maintenance

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3. Tree Spade Types

Spade Type	Description
Cone-Style (Round)	Produces deep, tapered root balls; best for deep-rooted trees
Truncated Cone	Slightly flattened base; allows easier lifting and reduced soil volume
Ball-Style (Vertical)	Short, flat-bottom root ball; good for shallow-rooted trees or rocky soils

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4. Compatibility with Skid Steers

4.1 Mounting

• Standard: Universal Quick Attach Plate
• Optional: Adapter kits for specialized skid steers or high-flow machines

4.2 Hydraulic Requirements

System	Typical Range
Hydraulic Flow	15 – 25 GPM
Operating Pressure	2,500 – 3,500 PSI
Coupler Type	½” Flat Face Standard
Electrical Harness (optional)	May be needed for blade sequencing or joystick controls

 Machines must have sufficient hydraulic power and counterweight to safely manage fully loaded spade and tree weight.

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5. Key Components

Component	Function
Spade Blades	Steel blades that drive into soil to cut around the tree root ball
Frame Assembly	Supports spades and connects to the skid steer
Hydraulic Cylinders	Extend and retract blades into the ground; control digging action
Tree Chamber / Trunk Guard	Central area where tree trunk is stabilized during transport
Stabilizer Pads (optional)	Prevent machine tipping or shifting during digging
Control Box / Wiring	Provides blade sequencing and manual or electric blade control (optional)

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6. Operation Guidelines

6.1 Pre-Digging Prep

1. Identify and mark utilities—always call before you dig.
2. Trim lower branches to clear the spade frame.
3. Ensure soil is moist (not overly wet) for best digging results.
4. Measure tree trunk diameter to select proper spade size.

6.2 Digging & Transplanting

1. Center the spade around the tree trunk base.
2. Lower the attachment and drive in spade blades sequentially (per manual or control box).
3. Once fully buried, lift the spade and tree root ball carefully.
4. Transport tree to desired location and lower spade.
5. Reverse spade blade action to release root ball into planting hole.

 Keep tree upright and avoid shaking or tilting during lift and transport.

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7. Safety Procedures

• Wear PPE: gloves, boots, eye protection.
• Never stand beneath a raised spade or tree.
• Keep bystanders away during digging and transport.
• Avoid slopes or unstable ground when moving a loaded spade.
• Ensure load is within the rated lifting capacity of your skid steer (machine + tree + spade).

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8. Maintenance Schedule

Task	Frequency
Inspect spade blades for cracks/wear	Daily
Check hydraulic hoses and fittings	Daily
Grease blade pivots and cylinders	Every 10 hours
Clean soil and debris from blades	After each use
Inspect trunk guard and frame welds	Weekly
Check blade alignment and pressure	Weekly

Replace or sharpen blades periodically for smooth cuts and efficient digging.

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9. Technical Specifications (Typical Ranges)

Specification	Value Range
Spade Size (root ball)	24″ – 48″ diameter
Digging Depth	24″ – 42″
Number of Blades	3 or 4 (common configurations)
Weight (attachment only)	800 – 1,500 lbs
Max Tree Trunk Size	1.5″ – 4.5″ diameter (varies by model)
Hydraulic Flow	15 – 25 GPM

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10. Selection Tips

 Choose 3-blade spades for narrow trees or tight root zones
 Use 4-blade spades for improved root containment and stability
 Select truncated cone models for shallow soil or rocky conditions
 Match spade size to tree caliper and soil type
 Ensure skid steer has enough lift capacity and hydraulic output