Tastefully executed tree removal can enhance a garden’s beauty while also adding valuable square footage to outdoor living spaces. It can also improve airflow by eliminating unwanted shade coverage. However, the process can be risky and costly if you are not a professional. Here are three thoughtful strategies for removing trees safely and smartly.

Front of a house

Identifying the Problem

Tree Removal in Cincinnati, Ohio can effectively improve curb appeal by removing overgrown trees that detract from the landscape. It can also increase the amount of natural light on your lawn and garden. However, doing it improperly can cause severe property damage and injury. Always verify local regulations and secure any necessary permits before starting the project. Then, clear the area of any obstacles or debris that could interfere with the work process. Wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, a helmet with face shield or goggles, and earplugs or earmuffs if using a chainsaw is also a good idea. When the job is done, following an arborist’s recommendations for the best way to care for the area around your new yard is essential. Regular inspections will help you catch potential problems and maintain the land’s and surrounding plants’ health.

Creating a Plan

Removing trees can change your landscape dramatically, whether it was a necessary decision due to illness or damage or you just wanted more curb appeal. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with the hole that remains. If tackling this job independently, making a thorough plan is essential. You’ll need a ladder, chainsaw, and safety gear. You should also be prepared to move large debris if needed. Begin by cutting a 70-degree uppercut with your saw or axe. When the bottom of your uppercut is at the base of the notch, cut a horizontal line in the tree, known as a felling cut. Once your notch is made, stand back to see if the tree falls as expected. If not, create a second plan that you can use if the first one fails. This will ensure that everyone involved is safe.

Getting the Job Done

Trees can be a significant source of mess on a farm, whether stately shade trees that drop tons of leaves or pine trees in a windbreak row that constantly fall, creating more work for you. You’ll likely also need to clean up a lot of stumps and other debris, especially after summer thunderstorms or winter ice storms. When removing a tree, follow all the steps carefully and use the best tools. It’s essential to wear all necessary safety gear, including rubber gloves, a hard hat, and goggles. You should also ensure you’re not close to any power lines, as errant branches can be deadly. After removing a tree, you must fill the hole with dirt and grass seed. This will help the area recover and boost your lawn’s beauty. If you want to add something extra, consider planting a flowering or fruit tree in the area.

Taking Care of the Stump

When you have a stump left over after tree removal, there are still ways to keep it from spoiling your lawn. First, it’s essential to ensure that people and pets are out of the way and as far away from the area as possible, at least twice as far as the height of the stump. This will prevent them from being harmed when limbs and branches fall. A stump that isn’t removed correctly can become a habitat for pests and parasites. It can also suck nutrients from the soil, leaving it less fertile for future growth. This can be avoided with a stump grinder that grinds up the roots, leaving only a hole to fill and cover up with soil. Lastly, some chemicals can be drilled into the stump to speed up the natural decay. This is usually done after a few days of dry weather so the stump can absorb the chemicals quickly.