Seattle Arborist Stump and Tree Removal Techniques

Unattractive, unhealthy, or even dead trees do more than ruin the appearance of a property.  Sick trees can spread disease to healthy vegetation in the yard, and trees whose branches get in the way of electrical wires or residential structures can be a danger to humans.

Tree removal is best done by a certified arborist Seattle or the Seattle area recommends (consider contacting your landscaper for a referral or simply checking the ISA website), so don't attempt removal of moderate- to large-sized trees on your own.  Removal of small trees - though still recommended to be done by a professional - can feasibly be done at home.

Tree Removal Steps for Very Small to Small Trees

1. Check the height of the tree to determine whether there's enough space on all side surrounding the tree for it to fall over without harming anyone (or anything).
2. Using a chainsaw or a small hand saw if the tree's size permits, begin removing the branches one-at-a-time.  Start with the topmost branches and work your way down.
3. Once all branches are removed, cut off the smaller secondary trunks, leaving only the main trunk left.
4. Cut the main trunk close to the ground to remove the whole tree.
5. Clear away branches, taking care not to cut yourself on sharp wood or inhale rotting wood material.  Dispose of branches in large paper lawn refuse bags.  Many cities send garbage trucks on specified days just for picking up lawn refuse to be composted.

For more tree information from Seattle arborist John Deutsch, visit Certified Arborist Tree Care online.