Get matched with top arborists in Alexandria, SD

Q: Is it OK to cut tree roots that are above ground?

• <div><p>If you aren&rsquo;t sure what you&rsquo;re doing, be very careful when cutting mature tree roots (roots larger than 2 inches). Root cutting and pruning can affect both a tree&rsquo;s stability and its ability to nourish itself. Issues during root cutting can result in damage or injury. </p><p>It&rsquo;s recommended you call in a pro to help, unless it&rsquo;s a very small tree and you aren&rsquo;t worried about the prospect of losing the tree.</p></div>

Q: How do I tell if a tree is dead?

• <div><p>A few signs a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/5-reasons-why-you-should-remove-dead-tree.htm">tree may be dead</a> is if the leaves are dead and there are no signs of new blooms. You can also perform a scratch test on some of the branches to check the condition of the cambium layer beneath the bark.</p><p>If it is green, it is still alive, but if several are dry, brittle, and brown, the tree may be dying or dead. Always consult an arborist before assuming your tree is dead because you may be able to save it.</p></div>

Q: How damaged can a tree be before it’s considered a loss?

• <div><p>Most experts recommend removing a tree that has sustained more than <b>25%</b> loss in the limbs, trunk, or circumference of the bark. Doing an initial trimming of damaged and dangling branches, but then waiting a few days of monitoring to decide how much more you might need to cut can help you better assess the total damage to the tree. However, consulting a tree maintenance pro to make this determination the best course of action before removing a tree.</p></div>

Q: What happens if you don’t trim palm trees?

• <div><p>If you don&rsquo;t trim your palm trees, you can expect several negative outcomes, including:</p><ul><li><p>Unhealthy palm trees attract pests, diseases, and fungi </p></li><li><p>Dead falling fronds can cause severe injury or damage to your home, pedestrians, or cars</p></li><li><p>Dead palm branches are flammable and can catch fire, especially during a lightning storm</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: How long does it take a dead tree to fall?

• <div><p>It could be anywhere from weeks to years for a dead tree to fall. A dead tree falls based on its weight, how it leans, the state of its roots, the state of decay, and what local windstorms are like, among other factors. Since it&rsquo;s hard to predict the fall&rsquo;s timing, it&rsquo;s important to cut down a dead tree quickly and avoid any unpleasant surprises.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Arboricultural Service pros in Alexandria, SD

*The Angi rating for Arboricultural Service companies in Alexandria, SD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Arboricultural Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Arboricultural Service companies in Alexandria, SD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Arboricultural Service needs.

Last update on June 01, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
Tim trimmed some big branches over hanging our house and was very professional. Would highly recommend him for any tree project you might have.
TNT Tree Service
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Reviewed in June 2025
We needed 3 custom built-in bookshelves and Linden did a fantastic job getting us exactly what we needed! He is professional, prompt, communicative and easy to work with. Craftsmanship was outstanding. He takes great pride in his work and we would definitely recommend him to others!
Deckers
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Reviewed in January 2024
Marlin came and installed our dishwasher when he said he was going to come and do it, and he did a good job! He quoted us a price, and that was the price he charged us. We would have him come and do work for us again!! Well done!!
Marlons Repair
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Reviewed in March 2023
He was easy to work with, good at listening what we wanted and open to changes.
TT Electric, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2023
Our experience with SD Windows and Doors was very positive. They were professional and did an absolutely beautiful job with our project. They were also very knowledgeable and helpful. We would highly recommend them to anybody.
South Dakota Window & Door, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2021
They are very professional, very on time, did really good work, and I cannot be happier.
J & C Construction
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Reviewed in December 2020
Good work, good service and he's one that will always do his best.
Caleb Wipf
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Reviewed in June 2020
Harlan was professional, polite, and honest. He completed everything in a timely matter, payed attention detail, worked well with all the requirements we needed to abide by, and he did everything himself! Most of the other contractors I had reached out were not willing to follow the guidelines...
Dillon's Dakota Excavating Service
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Reviewed in June 2020
Ryan was great to work with especially since I had concerns about water lines in the tree roots. Ryan took care of all the locate requirements and checked in regularly with me. He will be hired to do some more trees for us!
Focus Land Management
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Find Arborists in Alexandria

605 Firewood and Tree Services LLC

5.0(

)

Tree RemovalTree TrimmingTree Removal - For Business+3 more

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Did a great job. Made quick work of 3 large maple trees"

Response time9 hrs

Response rate89%

23 neighbors recently requested a quote

Tree TrimmingTree RemovalTree Removal - For Business+3 more

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2025

Free estimates

"Tim took down 8 trees removed the stumps, very good job"

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+1 more

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Large amount of work was needed, and job is about 80% complete. Hard workers that want to do a great job. Very courteous and professional when discussing details. They were willing to rent special equipment to get the work finished."

Response time6 hrs

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Gorilla Lawnservices Inc

4.6(

)

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+3 more

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Offers commercial services

"Trimmed trees, cleared branches, raked the lawn! WeÃ¢ re very professional, Had great tools and always friendly when asked to do more! Kept appointment time and finished in two hours! Would recommend their services!"

Response time1 day

Recommended by76%of homeowners

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Focus Land Management

4.9(

)

Tree Stump - RemoveTree Stump - Remove - For Business

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Prompt, friendly service and he did an excellent job!!"

Response time6 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For Business

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He does very good work"

Response time2 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+5 more

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Rays painting did an excellent job. They fixed loose boards and replaced bad siding before painting. Ray and his crew were prompt and courteous. They cleaned up after themelves and didn't leave a mess. Very happy with there work and have had numerous compliments from friends and family."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+3 more

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"excellent work, priced a little in my opinion but the finished product is great"

Response time11 hrs

Recommended by88%of homeowners

Tree RemovalTree Stump - RemoveTree Trimming

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Anthony and crew removed and trimmed trees, ground out a tree stump, and cleared a junk pile. They were professional, efficient, and did a great job overall. I really appreciate how neatly they cleaned up the work area and hauled the waste to the designated place. Thank you Anthony and crew. We highly recommend this service. Vicki & Rich L."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Landscaping And Carpentry

5.0(

)

Tree Trimming

Serving Alexandria, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

"He's a very hard worker!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 23

Arborists questions, answered by experts

If you aren’t sure what you’re doing, be very careful when cutting mature tree roots (roots larger than 2 inches). Root cutting and pruning can affect both a tree’s stability and its ability to nourish itself. Issues during root cutting can result in damage or injury.

It’s recommended you call in a pro to help, unless it’s a very small tree and you aren’t worried about the prospect of losing the tree.

A few signs a tree may be dead is if the leaves are dead and there are no signs of new blooms. You can also perform a scratch test on some of the branches to check the condition of the cambium layer beneath the bark.

If it is green, it is still alive, but if several are dry, brittle, and brown, the tree may be dying or dead. Always consult an arborist before assuming your tree is dead because you may be able to save it.

Most experts recommend removing a tree that has sustained more than 25% loss in the limbs, trunk, or circumference of the bark. Doing an initial trimming of damaged and dangling branches, but then waiting a few days of monitoring to decide how much more you might need to cut can help you better assess the total damage to the tree. However, consulting a tree maintenance pro to make this determination the best course of action before removing a tree.

If you don’t trim your palm trees, you can expect several negative outcomes, including:

Unhealthy palm trees attract pests, diseases, and fungi
Dead falling fronds can cause severe injury or damage to your home, pedestrians, or cars
Dead palm branches are flammable and can catch fire, especially during a lightning storm

It could be anywhere from weeks to years for a dead tree to fall. A dead tree falls based on its weight, how it leans, the state of its roots, the state of decay, and what local windstorms are like, among other factors. Since it’s hard to predict the fall’s timing, it’s important to cut down a dead tree quickly and avoid any unpleasant surprises.

The Alexandria, SD homeowners’ guide to arboricultural services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Alison Kasch
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does an Arborist Cost? [2026 Data]
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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Professional Tree Trimming Cost? [2026 Data]
Discover the average tree maintenance cost, key price factors, and tips to save. Get expert insights to plan your tree care budget with confidence.
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•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
How Much Does a Tree Inspection Cost? [2026 Data]
Tree inspections can ensure your trees stay healthy and safe, preventing costly damage. Learn how much tree inspections cost and what can affect the price.
Kat Brancato
•
Jul 7, 2026Jul 7, 2026
What Is an Arborist?
What is an arborist and do they cut down trees? Learn what an arborist is, the services they offer, and when to hire one.
Alison Kasch
•
Jul 7, 2026Jul 7, 2026
Need to Hire an Arborist? Here’s What You Need to Know
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.
Melissa Graham
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
What Is a Tree Expert Called?
The upkeep and care for your trees should sometimes be left to a professional. Learn all the reasons why so you know when to call an arborist.