Why and When You Might Need to Chop a Tree Down
As a tree owner, you probably want to see all of your trees grow to be as large and healthy as possible. Unfortunately, as you may know, some trees don’t quite make it there.
Trees go through a lot, and there are plenty of reasons why you might need to cut them down. Cutting can take a lot of work and energy, as well as planning – so you should be well aware of your reasoning before you give a tree the chop.
Learn all about the most common reasons for tree-chopping below – plus, how to do it, and what hazards you’ll be preventing.
Is Removing a Tree Harmful to the Environment?
Trees support the environment in a handful of ways. They store carbon, protect wildlife, and improve land’s ability to adapt to the effects of climate change – among plenty of other benefits.
With trees being so helpful, you might wonder what the cost of cutting down a tree might be.
It’s true that cutting cost to cut down trees in ontario on a large scale is believed to have negative effects – specifically, this action leads to deforestation and destroys the habitat of animals.
However, cutting down individual trees barely contributes to these problems at all. It is a marginal action compared to the elimination of full forests. Plus, there are many reasons why cutting down a tree might actually support the environment – for example, eliminating a diseased tree will stop the spread of disease to other, healthy trees.
So, you don’t have to worry about what effects cutting down your tree will have in the grand scheme of things.
The Top Reasons for Removing a Tree
Saving Nearby Trees
You may have heard the phrase, “A rotten apple can ruin the whole bunch.” The same logic applies to trees. Trees with poor health can pick up diseases or pest problems, and pass them along to your otherwise healthy trees. Even dead trees can infect surrounding healthy trees. That’s why you should regularly check trees for diseases or signs of death – and in many cases, you should remove these trees as soon as possible.
Preventing a Physical Hazard/Disaster
When a tree’s roots become weak, or when its trunk becomes damaged, it may start to lean or wobble. This could result in chaos – a falling tree could damage your property, your neighbour’s property, wildlife, or electrical wiring. In fact, falling trees cause fatalities more often than you’d think. If a tree looks like it could fall in the near future, take action and knock it down first.
Encouraging Forest Restoration & Diversity
Trees operate with a life cycle. Sure, it’s disappointing to see old trees go – but they leave behind space for new trees to grow. Getting rid of old trees that no longer serve their surrounding environment can leave room for new trees that contribute more. Additionally, this allows you to diversify your forest. Environmental diversity is beneficial for many reasons – it allows other species to thrive and supports the ecosystem’s health.
Provides New Resources
You may choose to cut down trees to create space to grow new ones. By doing so, you end up with an opportunity to produce more resources, like wood. Of course, it’s vital to replant trees whenever one is taken down – otherwise, this logic doesn’t apply.
Protects Wildlife
Trees provide countless ways for wildlife to stay alive – and maintaining the balance of wildlife is important for the entire ecosystem. Trees provide shade, living spaces, and food to animals, among other benefits.
Other Info You Should Know About Tree Removal
Know Your Rights: When You Can and Cannot Remove a Tree
Most regions have laws that pertain to when and why you can cut your tree down. In other words, you may face a fine if you do not follow the rules carefully when removing a tree.
READ MORE: Do I Need Permission to Cut Down My Own Tree
Getting a Tree Removed? Ask the Right Questions
You may choose to hire a professional arborist to remove your tree.
There are many benefits to getting a pro to help:
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Arborists are carefully trained to diagnose tree problems and determine a solution
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Arborists know how to cut a tree in a way that prioritizes safety and ensures that no damage is caused to your home, surrounding trees, or wildlife
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Arborists can answer any questions you have during the process, improving your ability to care for trees in the future.
If you choose to hire an arborist, take advantage of the opportunity and ask the right questions.
READ MORE: How to Prepare for Professional Tree Removal – and What to Ask
Conclusion
It’s disappointing to realize that a tree needs to be cut down. However, taking care of a diseased or falling tree is ultimately the best thing for your property. Plus, you can replant your removed trees, ultimately creating a healthier ecosystem.
At Green Thumb, our team of arborists specializes in safe and effective reasons for tree removal. Contact us today to learn how we can help your forest thrive.
We take pride in offering our professional Tree Care services in Ottawa. Feel free to reach out to Green Thumb Tree Specialists for any of the following Tree Services: