Best arborists near Elgin, NE

As a general rule, the protected area should be about 1½ times as wide as the canopy of the tree’s leaves. This digging measurement can vary by tree species and the age of the tree. Of course, that can be a lot of fencing for larger trees, which is why our first step is about making difficult decisions on which trees to save.

Tree experts don’t advise against digging through tree roots, but instead encourage caution and consultation with a local arborist to make sure you don’t damage the tree’s structure or interrupt its water or nutrient intake. An arborist can recommend specific practices when digging and help prune the roots or dig a trench for utilities with a tool that can remove soil without touching the tree’s roots.

Tree roots can take weeks to years to die, depending on the method you use. Chemical herbicides take the least amount of time—typically between three and four weeks—while homemade methods, like covering an old stump with leaves, could take between seven and eight years. If you’re unsure which method to use or how quickly you need to act, consulting with a pro is always a good idea.

The best time to transplant a tree is when it is dormant. For many trees, this means either in the fall after the leaves have dropped (around October or November) or in early spring before new growth begins (around March). The ideal timing can depend on the type of tree. Deciduous trees do well when moved in early spring or fall, while evergreens are best transplanted in early spring or late summer. For example, pine trees are best moved in early fall, but maples prefer late fall. Avoid transplanting in winter, as the frozen or hard, cold soil poses a significant risk to the roots and prevents the tree from acclimating properly.