Get matched with top tree service pros in Green Oak, MI

If you’re looking to rot a tree stump fast, potassium nitrate will work far quicker than copper nails. First, drill several holes into the stump using a power drill, then pour potassium nitrate pellets into the holes. Next, add water to help the chemical absorb into the wood, thoroughly soaking the stump to ensure the pellets dissolve and spread evenly. Afterward, cover the stump with a tarp to retain moisture and block sunlight, then place mulch on top to secure it in place.

Your neighbor is not in a good position to know if your trees are truly dead or pose any kind of danger. That’s why hiring an arborist or tree service expert can be such an important part of the process. If the trees are still alive and don’t pose any threat, you’re in the clear (but you may want to document and photograph everything in case events turn sour down the road).

But if a tree is visibly dead and near the property line, you should remove it to be safe. If a dead tree falls on a neighbor’s property, they may have grounds to sue for negligence. If any branches on trees have died, it’s a good idea to cut them back for similar reasons.

Most experts recommend removing a tree that has sustained more than 25% loss in the limbs, trunk, or circumference of the bark. Doing an initial trimming of damaged and dangling branches, but then waiting a few days of monitoring to decide how much more you might need to cut can help you better assess the total damage to the tree. However, consulting a tree maintenance pro to make this determination the best course of action before removing a tree.

On average, tree removal costs around $750, with a typical range between $200 and $2,000. The final price depends on several factors, including the tree's height, trunk diameter, species, and overall health. Accessibility is also a key factor; costs will be higher if the tree is in a hard-to-reach area or located near structures like power lines or your home. Additional costs may apply for services such as stump removal (which can add $100 to $150), log-splitting, debris cleanup, and obtaining necessary permits. It is also customary to tip the professional, usually between $20 and $100.