Best arborists near Ashville, NY

The fastest ways to remove a tree stump are by grinding it or burning it.

Stump grinding is often the quickest method, with professionals able to chip away a stump and its roots within a single session. You have the option to hire a professional stump removal service or rent a stump grinder to do it yourself. However, it's important to note that these machines can be large, difficult to transport, and dangerous to operate without prior experience. For safety reasons, hiring a local arborist or landscape specialist is often recommended.

Burning is another fast option. Before you begin, check your local burn laws. The process involves drilling holes into the stump, filling them with vegetable oil, and waiting 24 to 48 hours. Afterward, you can add charcoal bricks to the surface and light the fire, which must be attended at all times.

For a more affordable but much slower alternative, you can use potassium nitrate pellets to accelerate the natural decomposition process. This method typically takes four to six months.

Deciduous shade trees (the type of trees whose leaves fall off in autumn) need to be pruned in late winter—between February and March. That’s because it’s easier to find and remove sick or dead branches when no leaves are present. And wounds close and heal faster in colder temperatures so pruning them at this time also makes them less prone to infection.

Generally, you do not have the right to take fruit from a neighbor's tree, even if the branches overhang your property. The fruit is considered the property of the tree's owner. While you may have the right to trim branches that cross into your yard, the fruit on them typically still belongs to your neighbor. However, laws can vary by state and municipality. In some areas, branches that extend into your yard or trees that straddle a property line may entitle you to some of the fruit. The best course of action is to speak with your neighbor, as they may be happy to share. If a conversation is not possible, check your local regulations before picking any fruit.

Unlike some fruit trees, such as apple, sweet cherry, or pear that require at least two trees for pollination, most peach trees are self-pollinating. This means you can plant just one tree and still expect it to produce fruit, typically within two to four years. For best results, consult with a local landscaper to choose the right peach tree variety for your specific climate, soil type, and yard layout.