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Large, established tree branches won’t grow roots, but if you find a young tree branch that’s less than about a year old, you’ve got a shot. Put it in water or soil as soon as possible for best results. You’ll know the branch is viable if it’s about the thickness of a pencil and has some leaves or needles.

It can take anywhere from one month to a couple of years for tree roots to grow back in sewer lines. Tree roots can cause extreme havoc on your sewer lines, potentially cracking them and causing untreated wastewater to make its way into the groundwater. Have a landscaping pro remove trees and roots before installing your system, or call a pro to do it retroactively as soon as you can.

It is possible to cut down a tree on your property yourself, but it is generally not recommended unless specific conditions are met. You should only consider this project if the tree is small (e.g., under 4-5 inches in diameter and short enough that you don't need a ladder to reach the branches), and you are experienced in handling a chainsaw. The tree must also be located far from any power lines, fences, homes, or other structures. Even for small trees, the work can be dangerous, and it's always advisable to have a spotter to ensure the tree falls correctly and no branches fall on you.

For any tree that is large, requires a ladder to access, or is near electrical lines or structures, you should always hire a professional. Attempting to remove a large tree yourself is extremely dangerous, poses a risk of serious injury, and could result in significant damage to your property.

Before any tree removal, it's also important to check your local and state regulations to ensure the tree is not historic or otherwise protected by your city.

A few signs a tree may be dead is if the leaves are dead and there are no signs of new blooms. You can also perform a scratch test on some of the branches to check the condition of the cambium layer beneath the bark.

If it is green, it is still alive, but if several are dry, brittle, and brown, the tree may be dying or dead. Always consult an arborist before assuming your tree is dead because you may be able to save it.