Q: What happens if we cut down all the trees on our property?

• <div><p>In the short term, you&rsquo;ll have a lot of fallen trees to deal with. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-you-need-know-hiring-tree-service.htm">Tree removal services costs</a> typically start at <b>$200 per tree</b> and increase based on species and size. Then, you&rsquo;ll have to deal with the loss of trees: That means a loss of shade and a greater risk of rain runoff and erosion. Also, you&rsquo;ll miss out on the health and aesthetic benefits of having trees on your property, which could even affect the resale value of your home.</p><p>That being said, cutting down a tree it&rsquo;s not always a bad idea. Trees growing too close to rooftops can present fire hazards or debris problems. You may need to remove diseased or dying trees to prevent future issues. </p></div>

Question 1

How can I tell if a tree needs to be cut down?

Accepted Answer

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There are several signs that may indicate a tree needs to be cut down. These include visible damage to the trunk or branches, a hollow trunk, extensive storm damage, or a significant lean to one side. Other warning signs are pest infestations or the tree growing too close to a house, power lines, or other structures. It is best to hire a professional arborist to inspect the tree, as they can determine if it can be saved or if removal is necessary.

Question 2

How much do arborists charge?

Accepted Answer

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Hiring an arborist costs around $900 on average, with prices ranging from $250 to $2,500 or more. Some arborists charge an hourly rate, typically between $100 and $350 per hour. The final cost depends on several factors, including the type of work, the number of trees, accessibility, and whether you hire an independent arborist or a larger tree service company. When hiring, you should also consider their experience and insurance coverage.

Below are some estimated costs for common arborist jobs:

Small tree removal: $300 to $500
Large tree removal: $500 to $2,000 or more
Tree health assessment: $150
Trimming a small tree: $75 to $200
Trimming a large tree: $150 to $400
Dealing with invasive species: $150 to $1,000 or more

Question 3

What happens if we cut down all the trees on our property?

Accepted Answer

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In the short term, you’ll have a lot of fallen trees to deal with. Tree removal services costs typically start at $200 per tree and increase based on species and size. Then, you’ll have to deal with the loss of trees: That means a loss of shade and a greater risk of rain runoff and erosion. Also, you’ll miss out on the health and aesthetic benefits of having trees on your property, which could even affect the resale value of your home.

That being said, cutting down a tree it’s not always a bad idea. Trees growing too close to rooftops can present fire hazards or debris problems. You may need to remove diseased or dying trees to prevent future issues.

Question 4

How can you tell the difference between hard maple and soft maple?

Accepted Answer

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You may be looking to identify maple trees to use for home improvement projects. In that case, you can tell hard maples by looking at their leaves. Leaves will have a U-shaped dip, or sinus, between the points, or lobes, of the leaves. Leaves of soft maples tend to have V-shaped sinuses.

If you already have the cut wood in front of you, look for a light, uniform color to identify hard maple wood and check for variations of red, gray, or brown streaks and an overall darker color in soft maple wood.

Question 5

Should I use a pruning seal for trees after trimming?

Accepted Answer

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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.