Removing trees from your property keeps chainsaws revving and brush chippers roaring. But is it always necessary? Why do people want trees removed? The answers vary, but by considering alternatives, objectives can often be met without removing trees. The following list is anecdotal and based on my personal experience. The reasons are in no particular order nor are they determined by any statistical data. Below each reason for removing trees, I have suggested possible alternatives for your consideration.
1. Dropping fruit/sap/pollen/leaves
Place an attractive organic mulch ring out to the drip line. Allow the leaves and fruits to decompose inside the mulch ring. This will significantly improve root health, soil structure and soil fertility. If mulching is not possible because of a hardscape feature or a building, the tree can usually be properly pruned to minimize the interference and reduce the problem.
2. Shading the turf grass
Eliminate the alien turf grass and mulch under the tree’s drip line or use a more shade tolerant turf grass. Prune the tree by properly crown thinning to increase light penetration. It’s important to remember that trees and turf grass are competing for the same water and nutrients. For beautiful, healthy trees, it’s best to eliminate the turf grass growing near the tree.
3. Blocking a view
Prune the tree properly to minimize tree parts that are blocking the desired view.
4. Dead/dying
If the tree is located in an area where there are no significant targets, the tree can be left standing as a valuable snag and habitat for cavity nesting birds. Often parts of the tree can be pruned to reduce the danger from tree failure and the tree can remain as valuable wildlife habitat.
5. Lifting foundation/driveway/sidewalk
Root prune the tree and install a root barrier to discourage similar future interference or remove the driveway/sidewalk and construct a hardscape above the root zone.
6. Afraid it will fail and impact a valuable target
Have a tree risk assessment performed by a knowledgeable and skilled arborist. Many trees pose much less risk than property owners believe. On the other hand, often a tree has defects not obvious to the property owner. Usually these defects can be mitigated by pruning or by installing structural support.
7. To clear for new construction
Make preserving the trees a priority when the construction plans are drawn. Hire a qualified arborist to participate with the architect and general contractor before work begins. If necessary, alter the construction plans to accommodate important trees.
8. Roots in sewer lines
Repair and protect the pipes. Tree roots will not grow into the pipes if the pipes aren’t leaking.
9. Overgrown/overcrowding landscape
Prune the tree properly using established crown reduction techniques. Do not top the trees. If removal is necessary, consider planting an appropriate species that will not be too large when mature.
10. Unattractive tree
Improve tree health and vigor by improving root health and soil fertility and the tree’s aesthetic beauty will usually return. Dead, unsightly tree parts can be removed by proper pruning. Many disfiguring diseases, such as anthracnose can be treated.
