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Some people prefer to leave or even carve a leftover stump, but we recommend removing it if possible. You can often dig out smaller trunks with a shovel once they have died and dried out. You can have stumps professionally removed, or request a service to grind them down to ground level so they can be replaced with other landscaping or objects.

The cost of professional tree trimming averages $460, with a typical range between $200 and $760. However, prices can be as low as $75 or as high as $1,800 depending on several factors. The size and type of the tree are major cost drivers; for example, trimming Crepe Myrtle trees costs an average of $80 to $400, while trimming giant pine trees can range from $200 to $1,800. Other factors that influence the price include the time of year, as services are often more costly in the spring. The tree's accessibility and your location also play a role, as a remote or hard-to-reach tree may increase the cost. Some professionals may offer a discount if you have multiple trees to trim.

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 ideal depth of a tree notch depends on the tree, but it should usually be between 20% and 25% of the tree’s depth. However, if the tree is leaning towards the direction of the notch, it can be cut more shallowly—at as little as 10% of the depth. When the tree is leaning away from the direction it needs to be felled, you can cut deeper, closer to 30%.