"These guys came out immediately and gave me a reasonable quote. Job was completed fast and they did an excellent job. No complaints and will be recommending to other people in my area."
We don’t recommend DIY tree trimming for a few different reasons. First, the tools required to trim a tree can be costly, up to $1,100 or more, for the ladders and specialized saws needed.
Safety is another concern, especially when working with more mature trees. As a guideline, you should only DIY tree trimming when branches are less than two inches in diameter. Any more, and the safety risk becomes too high, which could lead to catastrophe. For this job, it’s safest to let a tree-trimming professional assess the work needed.
Leaving the tree stump and letting it rot is never a good idea, as this leads to insect infestations and other frustrations. Additionally, decomposing trunks are at risk for diseases that spread out to the remaining plants and trees in the yard, thus ruining your whole outdoor aesthetic. It's usually best to remove the stump at the same time you remove the tree.
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.
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.
A grafted tree is a tree grown by combining two trees. It takes expertise. Branches from grafted trees don’t grow strong roots. Save yourself the time and frustration by having an arborist help you with this advanced project.
You can often tell if a tree is grafted because it will have a noticeable line. Above the line, the bark will look different than it does below the line. It’s most common with fruit trees.
The Atkinson, NE homeowners’ guide to arboricultural services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
How much does an arborist cost? This guide explains the cost of different services, ongoing expenses, and other factors to consider when hiring an arborist.
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Arborists are specialized tree care experts. This guide will help you hire an arborist with all the qualifications to give your trees the best care possible.