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What to Do with Leftovers from Tree Removal

Jul 5, 2021

Stuck With a Stump After a Removal? Try These!

There are plenty of valid reasons to remove a tree. Maybe it’s dying or diseased. Or, perhaps, it’s a safety hazard, appearing to be at risk of falling – or it’s covered in pests.

No matter what reason you have, the tree removal process requires a fair bit of work – and you’ll usually be left with some remains. What exactly can be done with the branches and stumps left behind following a tree removal?

As it turns out, there are plenty of cool, creative options. Read below to learn more.

How Tree Removal Works

Arborists know that tree removal must be performed thoughtfully and thoroughly. Improperly removing a tree comes with what to do with trees after being cut down while performing a removal correctly can leave your yard in the right condition for future planting.

Tree removal professionals will start by inspecting the tree and forming a plan. They consider all possibilities – is there a certain removal method that should be taken? Should the tree be cut from a certain angle? These are things that must be determined early on.

Next, they must prepare the site of removal. This ensures that no damage is developed to the property when the tree is taken down.

In a lot of cases, tree removal starts with an arborist climbing the tree. They use harness systems to move upwards – one harness is attached to the climber’s side and is looped around the tree, while the other is attached to the climber’s front. This setup allows them to safely bring their tools to the top of the tree while suspended.

When the arborist is in the air, they begin to cut branches, carefully letting them fall to the ground below. During this stage, safety should be at the top of all participants’ minds. Notably, arborists will leave some branches to keep the tree stable.

At a high point, the arborist will cut a ‘notch’ in the tree trunk, letting its top part fall over. Then, they will cut the remaining branches and trunk parts, leaving behind only the stump and roots.

The yard owner may choose to leave the stump and roots behind or have them what to do after a tree stump is removed professionally, which requires a different process.

READ MORE: The Steps Arborists Take When Removing Trees

What’s Left Behind After Tree Removal?

Usually, two key elements are left behind what to do after tree removal: a stump and roots. You can get these removed if you’d like – stump removal or stump grinding are pretty popular procedures, while root removal is a little more complicated. You’ll also be left with some branches that have fallen unless those performing the removal fully clean up the site afterwards.

You may also choose to leave behind the stump or surrounding elements.

Should I Keep My Remains After Tree Removal?

If you want to, sure!

There are plenty of creative and practical things you can do with branches, stumps, and trunks. Just be careful though, as these parts can attract pests – especially if they were chopped due to disease or decay.

What Can I Do With Stumps That Were Left Behind?

Thinking about reusing the remains from a tree removal service for a creative or practical project? Here are a few popular ideas.

Make a Tree Stump Flower Planter

On their own, tree stumps don’t exactly make your yard look particularly flattering. Don’t worry, though – some quick touch-ups can transform a stump into a beautiful gardening tool.

Use a stump that’s been left behind to plant flowers, plants, or herbs. Use some potting soil and woodchips to keep everything moist and healthy.

Make a Stump Table

Imagine being able to use a tree stump as a small table, either for storage use or for spending time outdoors. It’s plausible – just carefully saw the top of the stump off to create a flat surface, and paint or glue items on top to create a true ‘table’ finish.

Make a Candle Holder

Just by digging a small hole into the top of a stump, you can create a small space for tea light candles – or larger candles. The result? A cosy cottage-inspired decoration. Of course, be careful when combining wood and fire – even on such a small scale.

Make a Tree Branch Hanger

Usually, tree branches are a little prickly. Use that to your advantage! Find a long, thin branch and mount it to a wall by your home’s entrance. Then, hang items on the thorny parts. You may wish to shave these down, as they are often sharp enough to pierce through skin otherwise.

Conclusion

There’s no reason to let branches and stumps go to waste. By using them for the creative projects we’ve listed above, you can save money, flex your crafting skills, and give your home or yard a more nature-inspired design. contact Green Thumb today.

We take pride in offering our professional Tree Care services in Ottawa. Feel free to reach out to Green Thumb Tree Specialist for any of the following Tree Services: