



When cutting down a tree, safety and technique are everything. Many accidents happen because of simple mistakes. Here’s a list of things you absolutely should NOT do when felling a tree:
🚫 DON’T Do These When Cutting Down a Tree
1. ❌ Don’t Skip Safety Gear
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ALWAYS wear a helmet, eye protection, ear protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.
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A falling branch (called a "widowmaker") can be deadly.
2. ❌ Don’t Cut Alone
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Always have someone nearby to assist or call for help in case of emergency.
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Let someone know where you are and what you’re doing.
3. ❌ Don’t Use a Dull Chainsaw
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A dull saw increases the chance of kickback and puts you at higher risk of losing control.
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Keep your saw sharp and well-maintained.
4. ❌ Don’t Forget to Plan the Fall Direction
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Know which way you want the tree to fall and clear that area.
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Remove anything that might be damaged (cars, fences, power lines, etc.).
5. ❌ Don’t Stand in the Wrong Spot
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Never stand directly behind or in front of the tree when it begins to fall.
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Move at a 45° angle away from the fall path, and stay alert.
6. ❌ Don’t Ignore the Tree’s Lean or Dead Branches
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If the tree is leaning, it may fall in that direction regardless of your cuts.
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Look for dead limbs or weak spots—these may fall unexpectedly.
7. ❌ Don’t Make Only One Cut
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Don’t try to chop through the tree with one horizontal cut.
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Use the proper notch and back cut method:
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Create a notch (face cut) on the fall side (usually 70°/20% deep).
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Then make a back cut slightly above the notch on the opposite side.
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8. ❌ Don’t Forget to Check for Obstructions
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Power lines, structures, vehicles, fences—clear everything in the fall zone.
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Trees near buildings or power lines should be handled by pros.
9. ❌ Don’t Cut in High Winds or Bad Weather
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Wet or windy conditions can cause the tree to fall unpredictably.
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Wait for calm, dry weather.
10. ❌ Don’t Attempt Large Trees Without Experience
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Trees taller than 20 feet or near hazards (like power lines) should be handled by certified arborists or tree removal professionals.
✅ Bonus Tip: Inspect the Tree First
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Check for:
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Hollow trunks
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Cracks
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Rot or fungus at the base
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Bee/wasp nests or wildlife
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🌲 Step-by-Step Tree Felling Guide
✅ Before You Begin: Prep & Safety
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Wear full safety gear
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Helmet, eye/ear protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, chainsaw chaps
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Inspect the tree
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Look for lean, rot, cracks, dead branches, or wildlife nests
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Identify hazards (power lines, structures, vehicles)
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Clear the area
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Remove debris around the tree base
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Ensure you have a clear escape path and fall zone (twice the tree height)
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✂️ Step 1: Plan the Fall Direction
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Decide where you want the tree to fall (usually in the direction it naturally leans)
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Clear at least 2 escape paths at 45° angles behind you and away from the fall line
✏️ Step 2: Make the Notch Cut (Face Cut)
This tells the tree where to fall.
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Side facing fall direction
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Make 2 cuts:
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Top cut: Angle downward at 70°
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Bottom cut: Horizontal to meet the top cut
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The notch should be about 20–25% into the tree's diameter
🪓 Step 3: Make the Back Cut
This releases the tree to fall.
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Go to the opposite side of the notch
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Make a horizontal cut slightly above the bottom of the notch
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DO NOT CUT ALL THE WAY THROUGH — leave a "hinge" of wood (about 10% of the tree's diameter) to control the fall
🏃 Step 4: Retreat Immediately
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As the tree begins to fall:
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Shut off or drop the saw safely
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Retreat along one of the 45° escape paths
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Keep your eyes on the tree as you move
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⚠️ Step 5: After the Fall
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Wait for all motion to stop before approaching the tree
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Be cautious of:
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Tensioned limbs or branches
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“Barber chairing” (a tree splitting vertically due to improper cuts)
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🧰 Pro Tips:
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Use wedges to prevent the tree from leaning back and pinching the saw
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For large, heavy, or leaning trees — hire a professional arborist
More Articles About Arizona Landscaping
- Best Time Of Year To Trim Trees In Arizona
- Can You Grow Lemon Trees In Arizona?
- How To Save A Dying Cactus
- How To Bring A Dead Palm Tree Back To Life
- Cost Of Tree Removal 2020
- How Much Does Cactus Removal Cost?
- How Much Does Palm Tree Trimming Cost?
- How Much Does Palm Tree Removal Cost?
- How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?
- How Much Does Tree Stump Grinding & Removal Cost?
- How To Trim A Tree
- How To Choose a Tree Service
- WHY TOPPING HURTS TREES
- How To Show Your Trees You Love Them
- Fast Growing Trees of Arizona
- When & How to Trim Citrus Trees in Arizona
- Preparing Arizona Trees For Monsoon Storms
- Arizona Ash Trees
- Mesquite Trees In Arizona
In Arizona, the cost of trimming a mesquite tree in 2025 varies based on factors like tree size, condition, and location. Here's a breakdown to guide your budgeting:
💰 Estimated Mesquite Tree Trimming Costs in Arizona (2025)
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Small Trees (under 15 feet): $100 – $240
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Medium Trees (15–25 feet): $275 – $475
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Large Trees (25+ feet): $600 – $800
These estimates can vary depending on the specific region in Arizona and the complexity of the trimming required.
🛠️ Factors Influencing Trimming Costs
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Tree Size & Height: Larger trees require more labor and equipment.
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Tree Condition: Overgrown or diseased trees may need more extensive work.
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Accessibility: Trees near structures or power lines can increase costs due to the need for specialized equipment or safety measures.
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Service Provider Rates: Prices can vary between companies and regions within Arizona.
📍 Regional Cost Variations
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Phoenix Area: Average costs range from $386 to $574 per tree, depending on size and complexity.
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Scottsdale: Small tree trimming costs around $100–$240.
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Tucson: Costs are comparable to other regions, but it's advisable to get local estimates for accuracy.
📅 Optimal Trimming Time
The best time to trim mesquite trees is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This timing helps maintain tree health and reduces stress.
Tips for Hiring a Tree Trimming Service
Here are some key tips for hiring a reliable and qualified tree trimming service:
✅ 1. Verify Licensing and Insurance
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Make sure the company is licensed to operate in your state.
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Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation—this protects you if damage or injury occurs on your property.
✅ 2. Check Credentials and Experience
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Look for companies with certified arborists (ISA-certified preferred).
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Ask how long they've been in business and if they have experience specifically with mesquite or desert trees.
✅ 3. Ask for References or Reviews
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Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or Better Business Bureau.
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Request references from previous customers, especially for similar jobs.
✅ 4. Get Multiple Quotes
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Obtain at least 2–3 estimates to compare prices and services offered.
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Be wary of unusually low quotes—they may cut corners or lack proper coverage.
✅ 5. Clarify Services Included
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Make sure the quote includes:
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Debris removal
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Hauling or chipping
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Disposal fees
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Ask if there's an extra charge for emergency work or difficult access.
✅ 6. Avoid Topping or Over-Pruning
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A reputable arborist will avoid harmful practices like "topping," which can damage or kill the tree.
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Ask about their pruning methods to ensure they follow proper tree health standards.
✅ 7. Get It in Writing
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Always get a written estimate or contract that includes:
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Scope of work
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Estimated timeline
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Total cost
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Cleanup details
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Any warranties or guarantees
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✅ 8. Ask About Equipment and Safety Practices
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Ensure they use well-maintained equipment and follow OSHA safety standards.
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For large or risky jobs, confirm that crew members use harnesses, helmets, and safety lines.
Liberty Tree Care Offers Tree Services in Scottsdale, Mesa & Tempe
If you are searching for tree service in Scottsdale, Mesa or Tempe, Liberty Tree Experts can help! Get a free tree service quote by giving Liberty a call today at 480-482-9374.



Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tree Removal?
Home insurance typically pays for repairs and tree removal when a tree falls on a home due to a storm. However, if the tree simply falls over in the yard without causing any damage, the homeowner must cover the expenses. Home insurance will not usually cover the tree removal unless it ultimately falls on the home, fence, or garage. It is possible for insurance to pay for a tree removal if it is blocking your driveway or a wheelchair ramp. Reference your insurance policy and contact your agent for further information. Typically, home insurance policies will cover tree removal up to $1,000 per storm.Average Cost Of Tree Removals
Large tree removals, of course, will come with the biggest price tag. These removals will generally cost about $1,500 but can climb to $2,000 total. Some homeowners may not like this price tag at all. Trying to removed the tree yourself, though, is not advised. This is a task best left up to the professionals, as costly as it may seem. The removal costs so much simply due to the extensive manual labor. A medium-sized tree is priced around$630. To qualify as a medium-sized tree, it must be between 25-75 feet tall. The lowest possible cost for a medium tree removal is $210. Smaller trees (less than 25-feet tall) will cost around $330 to remove. The average cost of tree removal is about $825 in the US, according to multiple sources.- Tree removal: $150 -$1500
- Stump removal: $60-$350
- Stump grinding: $75-$1000
- Large tree removal: $1500+
- Fallen tree: $75-$150
- Oak tree: $200-$1000
- Pine tree: $200-$1500
- Tree branch: $200-$300
Receive A Free Stump Grinding Cost Quote
If you would like to receive a free stump grinding cost quote anywhere in the Phoenix Valley, Liberty Tree Experts can help! We offer affordable stump grinding services in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Glendale an more. Remove those sick or dead palm trees from your residential yard or commercial property.

What Should You Do If A Tree Falls On Your House?
When a tree falls on your home, it can undoubtedly create an extremely dangerous situation. Large trees can go through roofs, break windows, and cause serious damage to both the home and surrounding area. Trees of any size are capable of bringing down power lines, which creates other dangerous hazards. There can be a few circumstances in which a tree falls on a home, including high winds, storms, and floods. No matter the cause, a falling tree is always a serious situation. Follow these few steps listed below if a tree ends up falling on your house.1. Get To Safety
Your first move should always be to get your entire family to a safe place in the home. Get away from the damaged part of the home, even if this means heading over to a neighbor's home.2. Assess Outside Damage
Once everyone and everything inside the home is safe, take an extensive look at the tree from outside. If the tree has torn down any power or gas lines, it's wise to turn off the main breaker in the home's breaker box or your gas line at the meter.3. Record Everything
Always take videos and pictures of the damage regardless of how subtle the impact may be.4. Cover Openings
Fallen trees can create significant damage, including bursting through roofs, walls, and windows. Always remain careful when attempting to temporarily cover any holes that may have been created. DO NOT go up on the roof, as this is always best left for the professionals.5. Call For Professional Help
Call for help once the situation is under control. In the majority of cases, you should call both your utility and insurance companies. Your agent will advise you on how to proceed moving forward. The utility company will likely send someone over to check out the scene.Will Homeowners Insurance Cover The Tree Removal?
Home insurance typically pays for repairs and tree removal when a tree falls on a home due to a storm. However, if the tree simply falls over in the yard without causing any damage, the homeowner must cover the expenses. Home insurance will not usually cover the tree removal unless it ultimately falls on the home, fence, or garage. It is possible for insurance to pay for a tree removal if it is blocking your driveway or a wheelchair ramp. Reference your insurance policy and contact your agent for further information. Typically, home insurance policies will cover tree removal up to $1,000 per storm.Receive A Free Stump Grinding Cost Quote
If you would like to receive a free stump grinding cost quote anywhere in the Phoenix Valley, Liberty Tree Experts can help! We offer affordable stump grinding services in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Glendale an more. Remove those sick or dead palm trees from your residential yard or commercial property.

Stump Grinding And Removal
Stump grinding is the most effective way to remove a tree stump. Stump grinding costs are based on several factors including size, time, quantity, root system and cleanup. Stump removal, meanwhile, is the process of removing the stump entirely. This can either be done manually or with stump removal equipment, depending on the size of the project. Once the stump is removed, homeowners can choose to fill the hole with new dirt or replant a tree. Let's take a look at how long you should wait to plant the tree and how to go about this process properly.When To Replant After Stump Removal
If you wish to replace your tree with a new one, it can always be tempting to plant it as soon as possible. However, it is NOT recommended to plant a new tree immediately following a stump removal. Here are two primary factors you need to consider before planting a new tree:- The expansive underground root system of the tree that has been removed.
- The soil ecology changes as old roots begin to decompose.
How To Replant After Stump Removal
Follow these simple steps to properly plant your new tree:- Try to wait a full year before replanting in the same area as the removal.
- After a year has gone by, test the soil pH and nutrients. Adjust if needed before planting a tree.
- Plant a smaller tree if you choose to do so less than two years after removal.
- Plant the tree at least five feet away from where the stump grinding occurred.
- Water the new tree regularly for the first two years as the root system is being established.
- Stake the tree for one year so any inclement weather does not disrupt the roots.
- Apply mulch around the tree's base in order to conserve moisture.
Should You Wait To Replant Following Stump Removal?
Yes, you should always wait to plant a tree in the same location where one was removed. Waiting to replant the tree can greatly improve both the growth and overall health of the tree. Replanting a tree immediately following a removal can backfire. The old root system will release many nutrients into the soil as decomposition takes over. Sometimes, this can overwhelm a newly planted sapling.Receive A Free Stump Grinding Cost Quote
If you would like to receive a free stump grinding cost quote anywhere in the Phoenix Valley, Liberty Tree Experts can help! We offer affordable stump grinding services in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Glendale an more. Remove those sick or dead palm trees from your residential yard or commercial property.

1. Never Cut A Tree Down By Yourself
You will undoubtedly need a helper or two when attempting to cut down a tree. Working on this task with multiple people will help to make the job easier and safer, overall. Each person involved in the process can handle a different role. For instance, one person can cut through the trunk while another person can trim the branches.2. Do Not Use A Chainsaw Without Experience
Do not even attempt to cut a tree if you do not have any prior experience using a chainsaw. Chainsaws are powerful tools that can be very dangerous when used by inexperienced individuals.3. Do Not Top The Tree
Topping the tree can ultimately destroy its stability and natural shape. This will make the tree more susceptible to high winds and stormy conditions. Leave the tree pruning to the professionals at all times.4. Do Not Cut Branches That Are Bigger Than Your Arms
Do not attempt to cut any branches that are bigger than your arms. Doing so could result in serious injuries. Large branches are quite difficult to handle and can possibly damage the surrounding areas.5. Do Not Stand Under The Tree While It Is Being Cut
Ensure that nobody is standing beneath the tree while it is being cut down. Stand either to the side or walk away from the tree entire to ensure safety. Always be mindful of everyone's location when cutting down a tree.6. Refrain From Cutting The Tree Trunk Too Close To The Ground
When the tree's trunk is cut very close to the ground, significant damage can be done. Implement the 25% rule where the roots should never be cut beyond 25% of the total volume of the tree. It can be quite dangerous when a tree is cut too close to the ground. The tree's weight can be too much, resulting in damage to the surrounding area.7. Never Leave The Stump In The Ground
Always remove the entire stump in order to avoid any rot and decay. This will help keep your property clean and in the best shape possible.Liberty Tree Care Offers Tree Services in Scottsdale, Mesa & Tempe
If you are searching for tree service in Scottsdale, Mesa or Tempe, Liberty Tree Experts can help! Get a free tree service quote by giving Liberty a call today at 480-482-9374.More Articles About Arizona Landscaping
- Best Time Of Year To Trim Trees In Arizona
- Can You Grow Lemon Trees In Arizona?
- How To Save A Dying Cactus
- How To Bring A Dead Palm Tree Back To Life
- Cost Of Tree Removal 2020
- How Much Does Cactus Removal Cost?
- How Much Does Palm Tree Trimming Cost?
- How Much Does Palm Tree Removal Cost?
- How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?
- How Much Does Tree Stump Grinding & Removal Cost?
- How To Trim A Tree
- How To Choose a Tree Service
- WHY TOPPING HURTS TREES
- How To Show Your Trees You Love Them
- Fast Growing Trees of Arizona
- When & How to Trim Citrus Trees in Arizona
- Preparing Arizona Trees For Monsoon Storms
- Arizona Ash Trees
- Mesquite Trees In Arizona


How To Tell If A Palm Tree Is Dying
It can be difficult to judge whether your palm tree is dead or just in need of extra care. If there is any remaining green on the tree, then the palm is still alive, according to Hunker. Of course, if there is no green whatsoever, then it is simply too late to save the palm tree. Some of the first signs one can notice with dying palms are yellowing or drooping leaves. Start by investigating the soil that the palm is planted in. Here are three signs that a palm is either dying or already dead:- Wilting Or Discolored Palms
- Pest Infestations
- Running Out Of Nutrients
Wilting Or Discolored Palms
Whenever a palm's fronds begin yellowing, Davey suggests checking the soil to make sure no major nutrients are lacking. Proper moisture and fertilizer levels need to be checked, as well. Any inefficiency can cause harm to your valuable palm. DO NOT attempt to remove any discolored fronds from the tree, however. This can stunt the growth of younger leaves on the tree.Pest Infestations
Experts say palm trees are most affected by the following pests: palm aphids, spider mites, caterpillars, sucking insects and mealybugs. Inspect your palm tree regularly to ensure there is no visual infestation of pests.Running Out Of Nutrients
Magnesium and potassium deficiencies are the most likely nutrients causing a palm tree to suffer. Remember, palms can be very temperamental, and several factors like soil, water, nutrients and fertilizer can affect the overall health of the tree. It is best to do something immediately whenever you notice some sort of deficiency. If any of these factors are left unattended or uncared for, there is a good chance your dying palm will eventually die.How To Save A Dying Palm Tree
Follow these steps to bring your palm tree back to life:- Increase or decrease sunlight exposure
- Replace nutrients
- Add proper amount of water
- Use a higher-quality fertilizer
- Only cut off fronds after they are dead
- No pruning during hurricane season
Liberty Tree Care Offers Tree Services in Scottsdale, Mesa & Tempe
If you are searching for tree service in Scottsdale, Mesa or Tempe, Liberty Tree Experts can help! Get a free tree service quote by giving Liberty a call today at 480-482-9374.More Articles About Arizona Landscaping
- Best Time Of Year To Trim Trees In Arizona
- Can You Grow Lemon Trees In Arizona?
- How To Save A Dying Cactus
- How To Bring A Dead Palm Tree Back To Life
- Cost Of Tree Removal 2020
- How Much Does Cactus Removal Cost?
- How Much Does Palm Tree Trimming Cost?
- How Much Does Palm Tree Removal Cost?
- How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?
- How Much Does Tree Stump Grinding & Removal Cost?
- How To Trim A Tree
- How To Choose a Tree Service
- WHY TOPPING HURTS TREES
- How To Show Your Trees You Love Them
- Fast Growing Trees of Arizona
- When & How to Trim Citrus Trees in Arizona
- Preparing Arizona Trees For Monsoon Storms
- Arizona Ash Trees
- Mesquite Trees In Arizona