The highest is during early spring. Another high, although a bit lower than the spring high, is during the dormant winter season. Very little transpiration occurs during the winter. The old-timer's belief was based on the fact that the bark of most trees will slip or peel off easier in spring than in winter. In winter, the tree has stopped growing and the cambium is inactive and drier.
Moisture content remains high year-round even when the tree is dormant.
Since the drainage holes are at the base of the container. Plant survival is dependent on the roots growing into the surrounding soil after transplanting. Thus it is critical to place the healthiest roots in oxygen-rich soil and to direct root growth away from the container. Using a sharp knife, spade, or other implement, split or slice the root ball from the base to within one-half the distance to the top surface of the ball. Cut from the top to the bottom of the root mass.