When Is The Right Time To Cut Down A Tree?

Dead Or Dying Trees May Present A Very Real Hazard

Trees are beautiful elements of most outdoor landscapes. However, there are times they need to be cut down. Sometimes, it isn’t really clear when the right time to cut down a tree really is.

If your tree is completely dead, then there is no doubt that it needs to be cut down immediately. Once a tree dies, it becomes a health hazard. Its branches and limbs begin to fall, and as its grip loosens, the whole tree may go down, causing considerable damage to life and property around it.

In cases where the tree in question is partially dead or struggling, however, there is always confusion as to when is the right time to cut down the tree. Often, we want to give the tree every chance to recover instead of replacing it. Here at DR Trees Redmond, we look at the factors to consider when deciding on whether to cut a tree down or not.

Location Of The Tree

Where the tree is located is a key factor to consider. Vulnerable areas such as those near a playground, well, the backyard where children play, the sidewalk or road where people frequent, or near the bedroom or living space of the property where the falling tree can hurt the inhabitants of the house should be considered.

Cost Of Replacement

The cost of replacement is not a straightforward factor. It depends on what you plan to replace your damaged tree with. A simple seedling could cost you as little as $10, in which case replacing the tree might seem the more practical option than treating it in most cases. However, if you are looking for saplings then they can come for over $1000 depending on the species and size and they might not be the most viable option.

A combined assessment of all these factors will help make the best decision with regards to whether to cut down the tree or not. It is important to get an expert’s input about the tree and to evaluate the alternative options available. However, another important matter is the sentimental value the tree holds. Sometimes the tree in question is the one you have grown up around. You have climbed it, swung on its branches, and have had innumerable adventures. Giving up on it might feel criminal, however, planting a new tree that can serve future generations may be the better option.

Chances of Survival

A tree’s chances of surviving from damage are dependent on the extent and nature of the damage. There is a consensus that most hardwood trees with 25% to 50% canopy losses are doomed, regardless of the cause. However, diseased trees can be doomed much earlier, which means, for knowing the chances of recovery, it is important to know the cause of damage.

Cost Of Treating The Tree

In some cases, the treatment required to help the tree recover is a simple, cost-effective one. However, in other cases, the treatment can be one that needs to be administered for years to be effective and can prove very costly. Again, the opinion of an expert is best. An arborist can give you a clear picture of the treatment required and the cost involved. If the chances of recovery are slim and the cost of treatment is prohibitive, then you might need to consider cutting the tree down.