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In the case that a tree is growing directly on your property line, the cost of maintaining the tree is shared and is the property of both owners in common. In this case, all decisions regarding the maintenance of the tree must be made jointly, and both parties must agree on a course of action. You will need to agree with your neighbor about the cutting of any roots before you carry it out, and your neighbor must also consult with you before doing any trimming. Coming to an agreement with your neighbor about any shared trees ahead of necessary trimming and maintenance will make this process much simpler.

It may not be worth it to rake every leaf in your yard, but it’s necessary to remove the majority of leaves to prevent them from smothering grass growth on your lawn. However, raking leaves isn’t your only option for leaf removal. You can remove leaves easily with a leaf blower or compost or mulch them with your lawn mower to repurpose them to help grow your garden or yard.

The best time to trim trees is in late fall through winter when the tree has slowed its growing for the year. Cold weather stops insects and fungal growth from attacking a new tree wound. Summer and fall are considered the worst times to trim trees, but it’s permissible in certain scenarios, such as tree disease, damaged branches, or small, aesthetic cuts.

In most cases, you should not use a pruning seal on trees after trimming. Applying a sealant can interfere with the tree's natural healing process, and it does not guarantee protection from pathogens. Instead of sealing the cut, the best practice is to support the tree's natural recovery by providing it with plenty of water and a dormant-style fertilizer. However, there are exceptions. Pruning seals may be recommended for very vulnerable species, like elm trees, in areas where dangerous diseases such as Dutch elm disease are prevalent. In these specific situations, the protection offered by a sealant can outweigh its downsides. For advice tailored to your situation, especially after cutting large branches, it is best to consult a local tree trimming professional.