When a tree starts growing a little too big, it can pose problems both above and below ground by growing up against buildings, utility lines, pavement, and sewer pipes. Whether you want to keep the tree, move it elsewhere, or have it removed completely, there are several ways you can take care of your tree before it causes any trouble.
Have It Professionally Pruned
If a tree starts growing too tall or too wide, you may be able to have it trimmed to reduce its growth. This would be a change that would end up more permanent than simply cutting the tree to size, but there are some caveats. The first is that this is not a short-term solution, and it can take up to a few years to have it trimmed into its proper size. The second is that this option is limited to trees of certain shapes; trees that grow in a pyramid shape can't use this method. The third is that this is harder to do for older trees. It can still be done, but the tree may not grow back as healthy.
There are also certain methods of pruning that should be used depending on the species of your tree, your climate, the tree's average size when full grown, and other factors. If height is your only concern, it may be tempting to use tree topping to keep it short, but this can be harmful to your tree, and you would need an arborist's help to bring it back to health. A long-term plan will help keep your tree from growing too large for the space it's in while also keeping it healthy and without leaving it susceptible to disease or infestation. Call an arborist or tree pruning professional to ask about your needs and see what your options are.
Have It Moved Elsewhere
If you want to try to keep your tree but see no way to keep it where it's currently planted, moving the tree is usually an option unless the tools needed to move a tree of the size you have cannot physically make it to the tree itself. The good news is that most trees can be moved regardless of size, but the less good news is that this very much depends on if you have the budget for it. Moving a large tree can start at several hundred dollars, and there are many different preparations for this move. The tree needs to be properly trimmed, the soil in the current location and destination need to be hydrated, the soil in both areas needs to be prepared, and a hole in the destination area needs to be dug. Once the tree has been successfully transplanted, it also needs special care to keep it healthy and minimize the effects of transplant shock.
Still, this one-time expense can be more worthwhile compared to planting a new tree and waiting for it to grow in another location. This process is made easier by the fact that most of a tree's roots grow only two meters deep, which means you don't need to dig an enormous hole for even a very large tree. The roots will also be cut cleanly, allowing them to grow again in the new area. Depending on the tree you want to move, this process is often only moderately more expensive than the cost of having a tree cut down and removed, so seek out some quotes to see if this can work for you.
Have It Removed
If pruning and transplanting the tree aren't viable options, then removing it is a safe option that can save you trouble down the road. This may be the option for you if you don't have space on your property to transplant a tree of that size, if the tree is dead or dying, if the existing root system may interfere with plumbing like sewer or septic components, or if you just don't have the budget to have the tree moved. There are a few different ways a tree removal company may handle cutting down your tree.
Each service costs a little more, but the convenience can be worth the cost. Large trees can be hard to remove from your property without professional help, and stumps can grow back if not properly killed, on top of adding a tripping hazard to your property. This task is also best handled by a professional, as a falling tree has the potential to cause both damage and injury.
Contact a tree care company in your area to learn more.
Share18 March 2020
Have you ever thought about how much variety there is between trees? Apple trees, for example, have spindly branches and a short stature. Oak trees are tall and straight, producing acorns every few years. And then there are pine trees, which stay green all year long. Each tree has its own characteristics, and as such, it requires somewhat unique care. Tree services know what type of care to provide for various trees on your property. From trimming to watering, this blog discusses all sorts of different services that can benefit your trees. Start reading, and you're sure to learn more about these majestic plants.