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

If my neighbor’s tree drops leaves in my yard, is it their responsibility to clean them up?

Accepted Answer

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No. Unfortunately, leaf removal is your responsibility, no matter what tree the leaves come from. It would be pretty hard to regulate leaves since they can be moved by the wind or water. Imagine the detective skills it would take to determine which tree each leaf came from and who was then liable for removing it. Instead, plan to remove any leaves on your property.

Question 2

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 3

Is forestry mulching worth it?

Accepted Answer

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If you have a large area of brush and vegetation to clear, forestry mulching may be the best option. This method works well for relatively flat areas that don’t have many large rocks or mature trees to clear. Forestry mulching is a relatively quick process that improves soil health, reduces fire risk, and leaves behind usable mulch.

Question 4

How do you remove bushes?

Accepted Answer

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The easiest way to remove bushes is first to cut the bush down. You may need to use a handsaw, pruning shears, or a chainsaw for thicker branches. Once you’ve removed most of the branches, you can then cut the base of the shrub as low to the ground as you can get. Then, with a shovel, dig around until you expose the roots. Dig out the roots, being careful not to leave any roots in the soil.

Question 5

Can I do my own leaf removal?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, you can conduct your own leaf removal, but consider that keeping up with leaf removal is time-consuming and requires regular yard work throughout the fall. The process can take a few hours a week. Professionals have lawn equipment that can speed up the process and save you time. Additionally, consider how you’ll dispose of the leaves. If your sanitation company won’t pick them up—especially if you have many bags from a once-annual cleanup— you’ll have to drive the bags to the dump. It’s usually easier to leave the work and disposal to a professional leaf removal service.