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You should avoid cutting off the top of mature cherry trees. This process is called tree topping, and it’s not recommended for cherry trees—or any trees, for that matter. Tree topping removes between one-third to half of the length of the tree trunk, resulting in structurally unsound, fruitless suckers. The only exception is for saplings. Young pie, sour, and tart cherry trees that are over 30 inches tall in the fall or winter before the tree blooms can benefit from heading cuts.

If executed correctly your tree should survive after being transplanted to a new spot. However, effective transplanting requires six months, careful root pruning, safe transport to the new location, and replanting in prime soil conditions. You’ll also need an appropriately sized root ball for a complete tree transplant. A good rule of thumb is that, for every inch in diameter, your tree’s root ball needs to be around 11 inches. So a tree with a diameter of six inches needs a root ball of approximately 66 inches.

If you don’t stake a tree that needs support, it could be at greater risk of being damaged or failing completely, whether it uproots or falls over. That could cause damage to your property or other surrounding trees. If you want to grow healthy trees, you may need to stake them for best results.

A tree growing close to a house can pose several risks, but removal isn't always the only or best solution. Potential problems include roots growing into the foundation and causing structural cracks, branches damaging the roof or promoting moss growth, and debris clogging gutters, which can lead to water damage. Trees can also provide access for pests and encourage mold. However, a small, healthy tree may not be a problem, and for larger, established trees, strategic trimming can be a cheaper and more beneficial alternative to removal. It is generally recommended to take action for trees within 10 to 20 feet of your home, especially if they are unhealthy or encroaching. Your best bet is to consult a professional arborist who can assess the specific situation and provide expert advice.