Moving seedlings

I have allowed some maple and elm seedlings (self seeded) to grow (with pruning) in my flower garden for several years. I would like to go ahead and dig them up now instead of waiting for early spring. As long as they are protected in an unheated garage or put in the ground in a different location, do you think they will survive the winter? Thanks!

Whats the rush? Are they in leaf? Are you bare rooting them? I would leave until spring myself.

I had exactly the same thoughts as Will while I read your post Carolee. Chances are just so much better if you lift at the optimal time, just as buds begin swelling in spring. It is possible to collect after leaf fall, but it is more risky.

I should have said: we are selling the house. So, I either risk it or loose them either way. At least they have cost me nothing but my time.

How about over-potting the seedlings by digging up a large extra amount of soil around them and keeping them overwinter in large nursery containers or flower pots?

That is certainly an idea. I think I will try that. I will disturb the roots as little as possible. Thanks!

Do you know what species they are? Very few of our native deciduous trees or common landscape trees are worth bothering with.
Iris

Iris, sorry I missed your question, until today. I know the elms are Red (Ulmus rubra). I've had more trouble identifying the maples, but through the years the trunk development as well as leaf reduction has been satisfying for something that started out as just an experiment.