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15 Apr 2022
What Is Tree Pruning
0 Comments By Brian B Tree Care , , , ,

What Is Tree Pruning?

Tree pruning is defined as a horticultural practice comprising of the selective removal of various parts of tree. These parts can include branches, buds or roots.

Why Prune Your Trees?

Since each cut can alter the overall growth of  the tree, no branch should be removed without reason. Typical reasons for pruning are the removal of dead branches, enhancing form or simply reducing the risk of falling branches. It is possible to prune trees to let in more sunlight and air penetration to the tree’s crown. In some cases, mature trees are pruned as preventive steps.

When To Prune Your Trees

Most regular pruning practices can be performed during any time of the year without much impact on the tree itself. Generally, wound closure and growth can be increased if pruning is done before the spring growth flush. Trees diseases, such as oak wilt, may develop when pruning wounds provide access to pathogens. Refrain from pruning any vulnerable trees.

Pruning Your Trees

Proper pruning is crucial towards developing a healthy tree with a robust structure. Trees receiving proper pruning measures while they are young will require less corrective pruning as they age. It is a must to create a sturdy structure of primary branches in younger years. Properly trained young trees should develop a strong structure with less corrective pruning needs as time goes on. For a lot of young trees, it’s suggested to keep a single dominant leader constantly growing upwards.

Pruning Palms

Most pruning is performed on palm trees to remove dead or dying fronds, flowers or fruiting clusters. On average, pruning is typically done about twice per year on a palm. Coconuts, for instance, can be pruned every 3-4 months. This minimizes the dangers of falling coconuts. Green fronds growing on palm trees should remain untouched. Pruning palms too often can result in attracting more pests and a slower growth rate.

Pruning Techniques

Different types of pruning may be necessary to manage certain trees. There are four pruning techniques listed below:

  • Cleaning: This involves removing dead or dying branches from the crown of the tree.
  • Thinning: This is a selective branch removal used to improve the tree’s strength and light/air intake.
  • Raising: Raising is removing lower branches from a tree, allowing clearance for people, vehicles, etc.
  • Reduction: This is done to reduce the overall size of the tree. Reduction can be done by pruning back the tree leaders and branch ends.

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.

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10 Mar 2022
Arizona Ash Tree Growth Rate
0 Comments By Brian B Tree Care , ,

Arizona Ash Tree Growth Rate

Classified as moderately fast growing, trees of the Ash species can grow between 18-25 feet in a decade. What can you do to ensure your Ash tree grows at this rate in Arizona?

Average Ash Tree Growth Rate

While most species will grow anywhere from 18-25 feet in a decade, as mentioned above, other species like European ash will grow at a slower rate. Typically, European ash trees will grow to a maximum height of 18 inches after a decade. Most Ash species will grow approximately 2 feet per year for the first part of their life when planted as ornamentals. These trees may grow slower when planted in a row with other trees.

These fast-growing trees are usually grown for timber and firewood due to their dense wood and short maturity time. Ash trees also make great ornamental specimens in sunny areas, featuring moist and well-drained soil. The growing speed of each tree will heavily depend on species and surrounding conditions.

Natural Germination Time

Members of the Ash genus will produce winged seed pods referred to as keys. These pods will typically ripen in early to mid fall. The seeds will not become viable until after they have been soaked and exposed to cool/cold temperatures. Most ash seeds will take at least 18 months to germinate if kept wet, in most cases. The pods will remain viable for up to 6 years as long as conditions remain favorable.

Seed Stratification

There is one trick to speeding up the ash seed growth: stratify the seeds in the refrigerator. This process will involve placing seeds in moist paper towels or sand, then leaving them in temperatures around 40 degrees Fahrenheit for 60-90 days. After stratification is complete, the seeds need to be placed in a spot where daytime temperatures hover around 85 degrees, and nighttime temperatures are closer to 70 degrees.

It is best to plant the seeds in the spring, if you live in southern Arizona. Seeds typically germinate within two months of stratification.

Time To Maturity

You must understand that not all Ash trees will reach maturity at the same time. Several factors, including sunlight and soil quality, can speed or slow growth time. On average, Ash trees can grow between 40-60 feet at maturity. Some species have been measured as tall as 80 feet at maturity. Growth to full maturity can take 16-60 years.

Growth Rate Vs Lifespan

These trees are commonly chosen by homeowners and new construction projects due to their growth speed. A high growth rate, though, can create more weak spots in the wood and can limit the tree’s lifespan. Ash trees can also lose limbs easily due to high winds.

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.

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17 Feb 2022
Trimming Avocado Trees
0 Comments By Brian B Palm Trees ,

Avocado Trees In Arizona

Is it possible to grow avocado trees in Arizona? Yes, it is!

This post will cover:

  • Best avocado trees for Arizona’s climate.
  • Best site to plant the trees.
  • How to plant avocado trees.
  • Watering the avocado trees.
  • Fertilizing the avocado trees.
  • Pest control.

Best Types Of Avocado Trees In Arizona

There is a wide variety of avocado trees, but some will do better in different climates. With the extreme heat of the Arizona desert, choosing the right avocado tree is crucial. Mexican and Guatemalan avocado trees tend to do the best in the valley of the sun.

Avocado Tree Site Selection

This pertains to where you plan on planting your avocado tree. Choose an area that is protected from the wind and has fast draining soil. This means a sandy soil type is better equipped for avocado trees than clay. Make sure to prep the soil in the area before planting the tree. Mix in some compost to ensure available nutrients. The should end up being half sand and half compost.

Plant the tree in an area that receives sunlight in the morning and shade in the evening. Avocado trees do not enjoy being exposed to harsh sunlight during the hottest parts of the day in the afternoon. Try to plant your tree on the east side of your lawn.

Avocado Tree

Planting Avocado Trees

To properly plant an avocado tree, dig a hole 2 to 3 times the width of the container and the same depth. Before placing the tree in the hole, saturate the hole with water and wait for the water to drain completely. After the water has drained, you can now place the avocado tree in the hole.

Gently pack in the mixed soil, compost and sand around the root ball. Next, create a little berm or moat of raised soil surrounding the base of the plant with soil and fill it with water. This should be about 4 inches high, which helps contain the water so it can be delivered to the root ball.

Watering Avocado Trees

During the growing months (mainly spring), you will need to give the tree a good soaking at least once a month. The hotter months will call for a good soaking twice a month. Then, you will need to irrigate the avocado tree for a few hours to push the salt away from the root ball.

Fertilizing Avocado Trees

Standard fertilizers with salt or sodium should NOT be used for avocado trees. These ingredients can harm the tree’s growth. It is recommended to use fish emulsion at least once during the growing season. Fish fertilizers are safe and typically available at local nurseries.

Avocado Tree Pest Control

Thankfully, avocado trees do not have any natural pests since they are not native to Arizona. Check with your local nursery if your tree is encountering any sort of unexpected pest issues.

Avocado

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.

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13 Jan 2022
Caring For A Sago Palm Tree In Arizona
0 Comments By Brett P Palm Trees , , , ,

Caring For A Sago Palm Tree In Arizona

Sago palm trees are well suited for the unique climate in Arizona. Below is a how-to guide for sago palm tree care.

Taking Care Of A Sago Palm Tree

Ash trees are often a great addition to your yard when it is already filled with sago palms. Featuring large fronds, comparable in size to palms, these sago palms are cycads that are very closely related to conifers. Sago palms will grow in the 8, 9 and 10 zones of the USDA plant hardiness. Full mature sago palms can grow up to ten feet tall.

Planting A Sago Palm Tree

Where should you plant your sago palm tree? Well, these palms tend to grow the best in areas with a moderate amount of shade. If the plant receives an excess of sunlight, sunburnt foliage can occur. With partial shade, however, the leaves can grow larger. Sagos also need soil that drains well. Too much water, though, can cause issues with rot. The ideal planting conditions are a partly sandy site with a mix of compost.

Watering A Sago Palm Tree

You only need to water this plant when the soil is dry. Younger sago palms do appreciate regular irrigation. Typically, watering the plants every 5-7 days when there is little to no rainfall is ideal. Well established sago palms are usually drought resistant and will require rare waterings.

Fertilizing A Sago Palm Tree

Fertilizing the plant once per year in the spring time should be enough to keep it healthy. For this process, use one tablespoon per square foot of a 10-10-10 recipe for fertilizer. Put the fertilizer around the base of the palm, nearly 8-9 inches from the palm. Then water the fertilizer in. New foliage should appear as a healthy green color.

Sago Palm Tree Issues

These palms trees are extremely resistant to pests and diseases. Waterlogged soil resulting in root rot is one of the more common issues with sago palms. Properly watering the plant with a well draining soil should solve the issue, though. Sago palms can tolerate very low temperatures, but some foliage may die if the temperature drops below 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning A Sago Palm Tree

Pruning is really only needed as a decoration of the sago palm. You can remove the cone from the palm carefully as long as the growing point beneath it remains undamaged. If left in place, the cone could fall off as new foliage begins to develop. If older foliage becomes tatty, cut it close to the trunk as soon as the new leaves unfold.

Treating A Sick Sago Palm Tree

The sago palm is sick when it starts yellowing. When nutritional deficiencies are present, feed the palm houseplant fertilizer every month. If the sago palm is indoors, try hand picking them off or placing it outdoors, allowing natural predators to eliminate the yellowing.

Palm Tree Removal Scottsdale

Liberty Tree Experts offers palm tree removal in Scottsdale, Arizona. If you are a homeowner in the Scottsdale area our team of trained, licensed, are insured tree cutting professionals that are knowledgable in palm tree removal. Each one of our technicians understands safe tree removal and cutting protocols and will get the job done quickly and safely. Call us at 480-481-1815 to schedule an appointment or for more information.

14 Dec 2021
Do Palm Trees Grow Back?
0 Comments By Brett P Palm Trees

Do Palm Trees Grow Back?

Whenever a palm tree is cut at its trunk level, it will NOT grow back. Palm tree growth can only occur at base level referred to as the growing tip, which is located at the base of the trunk. Severing this part of the tree will terminate the palm’s life. The growth process will differ based on the species of the palm.

Let’s take a look at the differences below!

Single-Trunk Palm Trees

The tip is better known as the crownshaft of single-trunk palm species. Severing off this growing tip of the tree will effectively terminate the life of the palm. The trunk will never be able to sprout a growing tip in place of its now missing crownshaft. Additionally, without the extra foliage to synthesize incoming light, the palm will quickly become weak and begin to rot. If removal of the palm’s tip is necessary, the suggestion here is to remove the rest of the tree as well and replace it with a brand new palm.

Some common examples of single-trunk palms include the Royal Palm, Cabbage Palm, Christmas Palm and Mexican Fan Palm.

Clustering Palm Trees

Clustering palms differ in many ways from single-trunk palms. For example, these palms feature multiple trunk stems, meaning it is possible to shave away some trunks without killing the tree. If the individual trunk is removed solely, though, the palm will not be able to heal fully. If you choose to cut the palm trunks near the root level, suckering explodes from this level, eventually sprouting new and healthy tree trunks. This suckering process (rejuvenation) will only occur within a healthy clustering palm tree. Diseased or distressed palms may not generate suckers, eventually dying off entirely.

Palm Tree Trunk Wounds

Palm trees lack cambium, naturally. This is a layer of tissue located behind the tree bark, responsible for creating growth rings on the tree. Wounds inflicted on the trunk cannot repair itself, which means these wounds will remain on the palm for its entire life. Most likely, these wounds will become dry and brittle over time. Fungal infections and insects can cause major damage to the plant’s articular system.

Pruning

Several crucial factors come into play when pruning. One point of concern is to be sure not to sever the palm’s downshaft. One suggestion is to only remove the necessary amount of fronds or else the tree’s growth could be stunted. And while this may be obvious, it is also suggested to never introduce new disease to your palm. Pruning is best left to the professionals!

Palm Tree Removal Scottsdale

Liberty Tree Experts offers palm tree removal in Scottsdale, Arizona. If you are a homeowner in the Scottsdale area our team of trained, licensed, are insured tree cutting professionals that are knowledgable in palm tree removal. Each one of our technicians understands safe tree removal and cutting protocols and will get the job done quickly and safely. Call us at 480-481-1815 to schedule an appointment or for more information.

16 Nov 2021
Palm Tree Removal Cost
0 Comments By Brian B Palm Tree Removal, Tree Removal

Palm Tree Removal Cost 2021

The average cost of palm tree removal is $825. Palm tree removal costs ranged from $150 to $1,500 in the US for 2021 according to Homeadvisor.

Average Palm Tree Removal Cost

Palm tree removal costs are determined on many different factors, but the biggest indicator of the price you will pay is how tall the tree is! As when it comes to removing a tree, the height of the tree has a significant impact on how much you will pay:

  • The average palm tree removal cost for a tree up to 30 feet tall is $215. Palm tree removal cost for up to a 30 feet tall tree ranged from $108 to $322 in 2021.
  • The average palm tree removal cost for 30-60 foot tall tree is $429. Palm tree removal cost for a 30-60 foot tall tree ranged from $179 to $679 2021.
  • The average palm tree removal cost for a 60-80 foot tall tree is $536. Palm tree removal cost for up to a 60-80 foot tall tree ranged from $286 to $786 in 2021.
  • The average palm tree removal cost for an 80-100 foot tall tree is $928. Palm tree removal cost for up to an 80-100 foot tall tree ranged from $786 to $1,170 or more in 2021.

These prices typically include cutting the palm tree down into a small stump. But in some cases, they may also add the cutting up of the trunk into smaller pieces, though you might have to pay extra for that.

Palm Tree Cost Considerations

Take into consideration that some extra services can add to the total cost of the removal of your palm tree, including:

Hauling The Trunk Away– You could pay up to $250 more to have the trunk sections hauled away as well.

Mileage Factors – Normally, there are charges for travel and mileage when palm tree removal services are located outside of the service area.

Roping Down the Palm Tree – It will significantly add to the total if the palm tree grows to close to a building or other obstacles such as power lines, it will need to be roped down into sections.

Palm Tree Stump Removal – You might have to pay an additional $74 to $215 if you want the stump to be ground down or removed.

Trying to remove a palm tree or even cutting it down is dangerous for yourself and others. That is why, regardless of the high costs, it is totally worth it to have palm tree removal done by a professional arborist or tree removal cost. Simply trimming a palm tree can be dangerous and runs the risk of the tree suffering and maybe dying due to incorrect trimming methods.

Palm Tree Cost

Cost Of Palm Tree Removal By Size

Read below to find out the average costs you can anticipate to pay for palm tree removal by their sizes. If there are special circumstances that will make the removal difficult, like the lack of space.

  • The average small palm tree (15 feet) removal cost is $125. The average small palm tree removal cost ranged from $108 to $142 in 2021. Adding special circumstances up to $215.
  • The average medium palm tree (15-24 feet) removal cost is $215. The average medium tree palm removal cost ranged from $179 to $250 in 2021. Adding special circumstances up to $322.
  • The average large palm tree (24-36 feet) removal cost is $393. The average medium palm tree removal cost ranged from $356 to $428 in 2021. Adding special circumstances in excess of $430.

Palm Tree Removal Cost Factors

Size Of The Palm Tree: It’s not only how tall the tree is, but the girth of the palm tree to be removed has a big impact on how much you will pay. The larger the trunk, the more expensive its removal becomes.

Location And Accessibility: Access to the tree is a huge factor when determining removal costs. It takes more manpower to remove the tree, especially if the tree is in the back yard and there is no vehicle access to the rear of the property. Conversely, a tree with a lot of space around it is going to be cheaper.

The Number Of Trees: You can obtain additional value if you have a lot of trees that need to be removed.

Stump Removal: Palm tree stumps are quite soft so it typically will not cost more than $50 for palm tree stump removal. Larger palm tree stumps (larger than 15 inches) may cost more.

Palm Tree Removal Scottsdale

Liberty Tree Experts offers palm tree removal in Scottsdale, Arizona. If you are a homeowner in the Scottsdale area our team of trained, licensed, are insured tree cutting professionals that are knowledgable in palm tree removal. Each one of our technicians understands safe tree removal and cutting protocols and will get the job done quickly and safely. Call us at 480-481-1815 to schedule an appointment or for more information.

21 Oct 2021
How To Wrap A Palm Tree With Christmas Lights
1 Comments By Brian B Palm Trees , ,

How To Wrap A Palm Tree With Christmas Lights

Even if you live in southern Arizona without any chance of snow, you can still get in the Christmas spirit. One of the best ways to gear up for the holidays is by wrapping your palm tree with Christmas lights. This can be a difficult task, though, so it needs to be approached with care and safety in mind.

If you are searching for “how to wrap a palm tree with Christmas lights“, follow these five steps:

Use Proper Christmas Lights

Find brown cords for the light strands before wrapping the palm tree. This will help hide the wires and make the lights stand out even more. When you use LED lights, it will cut down on the power consumption and glow without adding excessive heat. LED lights are the safer and more energy-efficient option. Many people who wrap palm trees choose to use different colors of lights at the top and in the fronds. Make sure to read the light packaging and check to see if they are rated for outdoor use. You may need more strands than first thought, depending on both the height and width of the palm.

Wrapping The Palm Tree

Make coiled balls of the light strands in order to make them easier to handle with care. You should be able to let them unwind as you make your way around the tree. Use a light duty staple gun to secure the lights in place if they start slipping. Straddle the wire and refrain from shooting through it with the staple gun. Always use the staple gun with care, as this can become a fire hazard if not used properly. Make sure to use a ladder for hanging on higher areas of the tree.

Lighting Fronds

After you have hung all the lights onto the trunk, you need to decide if you plan on decorating the leaves and fronds at the top. Decorating the fronds can be a difficult task, at times. If you do decide to decorate the fronds, you can run a look of the lights down a frond. Secure them in place with twist ties. Light the fronds closest to you to ensure safety.

Add Power

While simply running an extension cord to the tree from the house may seem logical, you must first make sure the cord is rated for outdoor use. These cords will be rated for inclement weather, including rain and snow.

Safety First

Your safety is paramount when it comes to this task. Follow these tips to make sure you stay safe while lighting your palm tree:

  • Do not staple the strands too much. Try to use as few staples as possible, only if the strands are slipping.
  • Use outdoor lights and outdoor cords. Electricity can be a dangerous power source, and it needs to be respected.
  • Do not handle strands that are plugged in. These lights can be very hot and lead to a serious shock.

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.

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28 Sep 2021
How Much Does Tree Planting Cost?
0 Comments By Brian B Tree Care

How Much Does Tree Planting Cost?

Tree planting will cost an average of $225 per tree. Smaller trees can cost as low as $106, with larger trees costing up to $2,423, according to HowMuch. The typical costs of planting a tree may vary based on type and size of the tree, labor rates and accessibility.

Tree Planting Costs

Here are the average costs for planting trees of all sizes:

  • Small-sized tree: Trees measuring between 4-6 feet tall in a 5-gallon pot will cost $106 to plant. This price includes transportation, site prep and necessary equipment.
  • Medium-sized tree: These trees will come with a planting cost of $225 per tree. Medium-sized trees are generally 8-10 feet tall in a 15-gallon pot.
  • Large-sized tree: Standing between 14-20 feet tall in a 1 cubic yard box, planting large trees will cost an average of $2,423 per tree.

Tree Planting Cost

Costs And Considerations

Electricity and utility companies may have the authority to stop any tree planting if it interferes with any overhead lines. Always check with local utility companies before planting any larger trees.

Use this guideline when shopping around for the best tree planting service provider:

  • Ask for proof of tree planting business license.
  • Professional arborist license.
  • Previous customer references.
  • Liability/workman’s compensation insurance.
  • Project timeline, including final payment date.

Additional information that should be provided before the project begins includes:

  • Registered as Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) accredited business.
  • Certification from the International Society of Arboriculture.
  • Valid contractor’s bond for work over $500.
  • Criminal background check on individuals working at your property.
  • Proper disposal of all tree limbs, debris, etc.

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.

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25 Aug 2021
Palm Tree Removal Costs
0 Comments By Brian B Palm Trees , ,

Palm Tree Care

How can you care for your palm trees throughout the year? Follow our guide to properly care for your trees and guard against any potential pests and/or diseases.

Palm Tree Care Tips

Routine maintenance is needed to keep your palms at maximum health. Use these care tips below:

Soil

Compacted soil found in many urban areas does not offer the type of nutrients required for a palm tree to thrive. These trees actually acquire a lot of their nutrients from the top of the ground and topsoil. This means fertilization is needed.

Roots

Since these roots do not grow very deep into the ground, they will require occasional care. The majority of palm trees feature just one trunk. The point at the top of the trunk is known as the terminal bud. If the top gets damaged, the tree could die.

Watering

Water a new palm tree twice per week for the first six months of life. Add enough water to penetrate at least 18 inches of the soil. If the soil is sort of a sandy mix, extra water is needed. Watering requirements for older palm trees will depend on the climate.

Pruning

Yellowing or browning fronds should be removed, but refrain from trimming too close to the palm tree trunk. Bark can be easily damaged and any wounds will be used as entry points by potential pests and diseases. As new fronds grow, the older ones will die off.

Palm Tree Diseases

Inspect your palms often to watch for any potential diseases.

Bud Rot

This is a fungi that can cause the fronds to wilt and eventually perish. Total demise of the tree may follow afterwards. Mexican and California palms are especially vulnerable to bud rots.

Lethal Yellowing

First observed in the Caribbean area nearly 100 years ago, this disease eventually saw a massive outbreak in the Florida Keys and Jamaica.

Fusarium Wilt

This disease causes the fronds to start wilting, eventually losing their green color and die. When a palm gets infected, there is really no remedy for this disease.

Ganoderma Butt Rot

A newer fatal disease of Florida palms, it is caused by a fungus called Ganoderma zonatum. This will attack the base or “butt” of the tree at a height of 3-4 feet above the ground. This disease has been attacking palms since 1994.

Palm Tree Pests

Always be mindful of these potential threats to your palms.

Palm Budworm

This is a type of beetle whose larvae feeds on flowers of a large range of fan palms. These beetles are about an inch long and are pink and green in color.

Royal Palm Bug

These pests will feed on only the royal palms, but females will lay one egg a day there during the spring. They will rarely kill the tree, but they will cause considerable damage.

Giant Palm Borer

This is a large beetle that targets the wood of Phoenix and Washington species. The borer grubs can survive inside palm trees for up to 9 years.

Thrips

This is a significantly large family of insects, feeding on palm flowers and leaves. While they aren’t lethal to palms, they will cause discoloration. You may start to notice black droppings on the leaves, as well.

Palmetto Weevil

They are found in Florida, Texas and South Carolina. They have a record of infesting saw palmettos, Washington palms, Canary Island date palms, royal palms, and even coconut palms.

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.

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08 Jul 2021
How To Cut Down A Small Tree
0 Comments By Brian B Tree Care , , ,

How To Cut Down A Small Tree

Cutting down a small tree requires safety, planning, research, and, of course, a chainsaw. Use our guide to cut down any smaller trees on your property.

Steps For Cutting Down A Small Tree

Always make safety your number one priority when performing this task! Follow these steps if you wish to cut down a small tree.

1. Use Proper Safety Equipment And Tool

For any tree cutting project, make sure you have eye and ear protection, plus a chainsaw. You should also consider wearing clothes that aren’t loose. Make sure the chainsaw is in good working condition after you have learned exactly how to properly use this tool.

2. Examine The Surrounding Area

Always be aware of exactly where you want the tree to fall. Figure out the direction of your cutting. If there are any homes, sheds, livestock or power lines near the tree, call a professional for the tree removal. Whichever direction you choose for the tree to fall to the ground, make sure you have clear lines to escape if things to do not go as planned. Plan to escape in the opposite direction of the tree’s descent, of course. Do this at a 45-degree angle. This should get you out of the danger zone.

3. Start By Cutting A Diagonal Line

The next step in the process is to make a 70-degree cut on the side of the tree which you are planning for it to fall on. Put the tree on your left side, bracing your left shoulder against the tree. Some chainsaws will feature a sight that tells you the angle you’ll be cutting at. The cut you make should be about a quarter of the tree’s total width.

4. Make A Relief Cut

A relief cut should be a horizontal cut at the deepest point of the cut you previously made. This means a triangle shaped cut will come out of the tree. This encourages the tree to fall in the desired direction. If your cut is not perfect, refrain from making any more cuts. Call a professional service at this point.

5. Fell The Tree

If you are absolutely sure the cut is facing the proper direction, you can take the next step. Felling the tree means you move to the opposite side of the wedge you’ve cut out. Start this cut slightly higher than the previous horizontal cut. Saw enough to drive a wedge into your cut, but not all the way through. You will want the wedge in, yet still have enough room to operate the chainsaw without ever touching the wedge. Leave nearly 10 percent of the center of the tree, which will help the tree stay secure on the stump. At this point, you can gently push the tree (using the 45-degree angle escape plan) or simply wait for the tree to fall.

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.

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