Q: Can I cut trees from my neighbor’s yard if they’re on my property?

• <div><p>Generally, if your neighbor&rsquo;s tree hangs over your yard, you can legally trim overhanging branches. Keep in mind that you cannot cross your property line to cut the trees, and if you damage the tree by trimming it, your neighbor could sue you. Depending on the type of tree and value, this could mean dishing out two to three times the value of the tree.</p><p>It&rsquo;s worth noting that the specifics of this type of tree maintenance and the guidelines around it may vary by location. Do your research and, most importantly, consult with your neighbor.</p></div>

Q: When do leaves start falling?

• <div><p>It depends on where you live&mdash;but in most areas, leaves begin falling in September and continue falling until January or February. Warmer regions, such as Southern states, may see leaves fall a bit later in the calendar year. It also depends on the type of trees in your yard and their maturity. </p></div>

Q: Should I remove any dead branches on my maple tree?

• <div><p>Yes, carefully prune back dead branches&mdash;don&rsquo;t wait for pruning season. This helps keep your maple tree healthy and also helps prevent large branches from falling unexpectedly. Don&rsquo;t seal the cut branch&mdash;trees can naturally take care of these wounds&mdash;but be sure to remove any source of fungus or pest infestation to help save the tree.</p></div>

Q: Does Dutch elm disease affect other trees?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s not as common for Dutch elm disease to affect other types of trees, especially if the surrounding trees aren&rsquo;t elms. However, it is possible for DED to spread to other trees, particularly in northern states, like Minnesota. In fact, it&rsquo;s a good idea to use geography to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/tree-and-wood-identification-your-backyard.htm">identify wood</a> and determine which types of trees are in your yard. </p><p>Unfortunately, the complex and shallow root system of elm trees makes surrounding elm trees particularly vulnerable to DED. Early discovery is key!</p></div>

Question 1

Can I cut trees from my neighbor’s yard if they’re on my property?

Accepted Answer

•

Generally, if your neighbor’s tree hangs over your yard, you can legally trim overhanging branches. Keep in mind that you cannot cross your property line to cut the trees, and if you damage the tree by trimming it, your neighbor could sue you. Depending on the type of tree and value, this could mean dishing out two to three times the value of the tree.

It’s worth noting that the specifics of this type of tree maintenance and the guidelines around it may vary by location. Do your research and, most importantly, consult with your neighbor.

Question 2

When do leaves start falling?

Accepted Answer

•

It depends on where you live—but in most areas, leaves begin falling in September and continue falling until January or February. Warmer regions, such as Southern states, may see leaves fall a bit later in the calendar year. It also depends on the type of trees in your yard and their maturity.

Question 3

Should I remove any dead branches on my maple tree?

Accepted Answer

•

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.

Question 4

Does Dutch elm disease affect other trees?

Accepted Answer

•

It’s not as common for Dutch elm disease to affect other types of trees, especially if the surrounding trees aren’t elms. However, it is possible for DED to spread to other trees, particularly in northern states, like Minnesota. In fact, it’s a good idea to use geography to identify wood and determine which types of trees are in your yard.

Unfortunately, the complex and shallow root system of elm trees makes surrounding elm trees particularly vulnerable to DED. Early discovery is key!

Question 5

How often do I need to prune my trees?

Accepted Answer

•

Any tree that needs to be pruned should be pruned to remove dead branches at least once a year. You may need to prune far more often if you’re trying to maintain a certain shape or to save a tree that suddenly becomes infected.