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  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.4
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon440
    Verified arboricultural services reviews

Top-Rated Arborists in Palo - Updated Nov 2026

Avatar for Erlacher Tree Service
Erlacher Tree Service
4.1(
10
)
Tree Removal

Serving Palo, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

At Erlacher’s Tree Service, we protect your property and enhance your landscape. As a family-owned and operated tree care company right here in Cedar Rapids, we treat your yard with the exact same respect we give our own. From precision trimming of hard-to-reach limbs to complete, safe removals of hazardous trees, our family brings meticulous attention to detail to every single branch.\n\n

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+6

6 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by50%of homeowners
Avatar for Exceptional Edge
Exceptional Edge
5.0(
3
)
Tree RemovalTree TrimmingTree Stump - Remove+5 more

Serving Palo, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Emergency services offered

"The Exceptional Edge technicians were very professional and meticulous how maneuvered around to trim my shade tree. I was very impressed how they removed the stump and all the tree limbs without tearing up my yard. Their service was excellent and they have the latest equipment technology."
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+10

16 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Arborists FAQs, answered by experts

Tree trimming can count as landscaping, depending on how a landscaping business describes its services. Professional tree trimmers are more specialized than landscapers and offer trimming services separately from general landscaping.

When general landscaping companies offer tree trimming, look up the details. They usually mean shaping or seasonal trimming of ornamental trees, which is different from trimming larger trees for health or safety reasons. When possible, look for a licensed expert that specializes in trees and tree health.

Deciduous shade trees (the type of trees whose leaves fall off in autumn) need to be pruned in late winter—between February and March. That’s because it’s easier to find and remove sick or dead branches when no leaves are present. And wounds close and heal faster in colder temperatures so pruning them at this time also makes them less prone to infection.

If you’re planning on keeping the tree, unless the roots are invasive, there’s no need to remove them, as doing so can cause damage to the tree. If the tree has been cut down and the stump and roots are left, grinding and removing the stump can cause root decay for some species. For other species, the stump and roots will need to be removed to prevent pests, disease, and possible tree regrowth.

Generally speaking, you’ll want to avoid flush cuts, which are cuts made as extremely close to the trunk or main branch. These cuts can weaken your tree, lower its natural defense mechanisms, and even cause decay. You’ll also want to avoid tree topping, which is the total removal of the leader and upper main branches of a tree. 

Most pros will advise against either of these methods, which is why hiring a pro is often the best choice when it comes to tree trimming.

It is possible to burn out a tree stump if it is dried out and in an area of your property with a large buffer. Drill holes in the stump and dig around the base so it burns more easily. Then, build a small campfire on top using kindling and firewood. You’ll need enough to keep the fire going for many hours to completely burn out the stump, especially if it’s large. 

Monitor the fire closely to ensure it doesn’t spread, and have a hose on hand if it starts to get out of control. When the fire is out, break apart the burned stump and dig out what’s left of it.  

If this sounds like a good option, learn more about how to burn a tree stump before attempting it, as it does come with risks.

The Palo, IA homeowners’ guide to arboricultural services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.