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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.

Yes, carefully prune back dead branches—don’t wait for pruning season. This helps keep your maple tree healthy and also helps prevent large branches from falling unexpectedly. Don’t seal the cut branch—trees can naturally take care of these wounds—but be sure to remove any source of fungus or pest infestation to help save the tree.

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.

Yes, it is highly recommended to remove tree stumps. Leaving them in the ground can lead to several problems, as they are not only unsightly but can also reduce your property's value. Stumps can obstruct landscaping plans, make mowing difficult, and hinder new growth. More importantly, they are prime breeding grounds for pests like termites, ants, and mice, which can spread to your home and cause costly damage to its wood and foundation. Stumps also attract fungi and diseases that can infect other healthy trees and plants in your yard. As a stump decays, it might sprout new, unwanted shoots. While removing a stump is an investment, it prevents these potential issues and enhances the safety, health, and appearance of your landscape.