Hello, it would best to dig clear around the pot carefully ,using a sharp narrow trowel (and under it) to disturb as few roots as possible. This is really important .
Keeping the soil on the roots can minimize shock of transplanting.
This may mean cracking the pot on each side to just remove it off the plant and it's roots and/or just burying the pot.
It has worked for me.
I like to dig a fairly large ,deep hole and add in some dirt like "Expert" or "Miracle Grow" as well as water before I transplant a tree and water again after especially if your days are hot and long as summer days tend to be in the USA.
This may be quite a chore but it is worth your time!
Thankyou for your question,please click if you feel you've been helped,otherwise let me know your question specifically .
Have a happy day!
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