Tree services, explained
Eight topics, 60 answered questions. Start with an overview or jump straight to your question.
Tree Removal
Tree Removal: cost, permits, process & when it's necessary
- When is the cheapest time of year to remove a tree?
- How much does it cost to remove a tree?
- How do I know if my tree is dead or dying?
- Can I remove a tree myself?
- Who's responsible when a tree falls — me, my neighbor, or the city?
- Does homeowners insurance cover tree removal?
- Should I worry about a tree leaning toward my house?
- How do professionals remove a tree close to a house?
- Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?
- Can I keep the wood? What does removal include?
Stump Removal
Stump grinding vs. stump removal: cost, options & what to do with a stump
- What's the difference between stump grinding and stump removal?
- How much does stump grinding or removal cost?
- What's the cheapest way to get rid of a stump?
- How do you rot a stump fast?
- Does burning a stump work — and is it legal?
- Should I rent a stump grinder or hire a pro?
- Should I just leave the stump?
- Can I plant where a stump was ground? What about the roots and chips?
Storm Damage
Tree fell on your house? What to do, who pays, who to call
- A tree fell on my house — what do I do first?
- Does insurance cover storm tree damage — house, car, fence?
- Whose insurance pays when a neighbor's tree falls on my property?
- How much does emergency tree removal cost, and why more?
- Who removes a tree on power lines?
- Who's responsible for a tree down in the road?
- Can I get FEMA or government help with storm tree cleanup?
- How do I avoid tree removal scams after a storm?
Trimming
Tree trimming: cost, timing & when to call a pro
- How much does tree trimming cost?
- What time of year should trees be trimmed, and how often?
- Can I trim my neighbor's branches hanging over my property?
- Who trims trees near power lines: me, the city, or the utility?
- Can trimming too much kill a tree?
- Can I trim my own trees?
- Is it cheaper to trim a tree or remove it?
Pruning
Tree pruning guide: timing by species, techniques & mistakes
- Pruning vs. trimming — what's the difference?
- When to prune oak, maple, fruit trees, and other common trees?
- How much of a tree can you prune without harming it?
- Why prune in winter or during dormancy?
- Should you seal a cut branch?
- What is tree topping and why is it bad?
- How do you prune a young tree so it grows well?
- Can pruning save a dying tree?
Hiring
How to hire a tree service: vetting, insurance & red flags
Arborists
What an arborist does, and when you need one instead of a tree service
Tree Care
Homeowner's tree care guide: health, watering, diseases & warning signs