Q: What is not a good tree trimming technique?

• <div><p>Generally speaking, you&rsquo;ll want to avoid flush cuts, which are cuts made as extremely close to the trunk or main branch. These cuts can weaken your tree, lower its natural defense mechanisms, and even cause decay. You&rsquo;ll also want to avoid tree topping, which is the total removal of the leader and upper main branches of a tree. </p><p>Most pros will advise against either of these methods, which is why hiring a pro is often the best choice when it comes to tree trimming.</p></div>

Question 1

Does vinegar kill tree roots?

Accepted Answer

•

Using vinegar to kill tree roots is just one of the clever ways to use vinegar around the house. The method works best when you apply vinegar as directly to the root system as possible. For example, if the old tree roots and stump are currently exposed, drill holes in the tops of the roots and pour undiluted white vinegar into the holes to soak into the plant. Remember that vinegar can kill the surrounding grass and plants should it pour over the edge.

Question 2

How does vinegar kill ivy on trees?

Accepted Answer

•

White vinegar does not kill ivy on trees because its acetic acid concentration is not high enough to overpower it. Vinegar is an effective herbicide for weeds and other plants, but not for the strength of most ivies, including poison ivy and English ivy. You should use an herbicide to kill ivy, such as one with glyphosate, imazapyr, or triclopyr.

Question 3

Are palm tree stumps hard to remove?

Accepted Answer

•

Unfortunately, palm tree stumps are one of the most difficult types to remove due to how their roots grow. Unlike other trees, palm tree roots grow horizontally and vertically. Palm tree roots grow as deep as three feet into the ground, although soil and growing conditions could mean they go as far as 50 inches into the earth.

If you want to be able to repurpose the grass in the area where you removed a stump later, you’ll have to dig quite deep—and perhaps wide—to trim away all the roots.

Question 4

What is not a good tree trimming technique?

Accepted Answer

•

Generally speaking, you’ll want to avoid flush cuts, which are cuts made as extremely close to the trunk or main branch. These cuts can weaken your tree, lower its natural defense mechanisms, and even cause decay. You’ll also want to avoid tree topping, which is the total removal of the leader and upper main branches of a tree.

Most pros will advise against either of these methods, which is why hiring a pro is often the best choice when it comes to tree trimming.

Question 5

How close can trees get to power lines before they’re dangerous?

Accepted Answer

•

While trees can grow in the curb strip between the sidewalk and the street, this placement often poses the problem of interfering with overhead power lines. It’s best to consult your local utility provider and tree planting service before transplanting a tree that might grow into power lines. Also, you should never work within 20 feet of a live power line to avoid the risk of electric shock. Tree branches should never touch nearby power lines, so it’s essential to ensure your tree isn’t in danger of growing too close to them.