Wow ... thanks to everyone for the wonderful advice and tips! Unfortunately I won't be able to wait a year due to its location and forthcoming construction in a few months (once the anticipated El Nino passes). I didn't mention in my original post that it is planted next to the garage at top of our driveway in. I'd imagine the root system is spread under the concrete. We will have limitations as to diameter when we dig it out - the area of dirt opening is not large. Thanks for your help
