It may be the most beautiful tree in your garden, or perhaps it shades your house in those hot Guelph summers? It could be home to a family of squirrels or the site of your grown children’s long unused treehouse. One thing for sure though is, hanging onto that old tree for the sake of sentiment isn’t the right thing to do. Whatever the reason you might be loath to remove it, there sadly comes a time when all old trees have to be removed.
But this decision shouldn’t be taken lightly and should be based on reliable information from a certified arborist, rather than raw emotion.
Should it stay or should it go?
Not all old trees need to be removed from a property. Remember old is a relative term and there are many trees whose natural lifespan far exceeds our own. The copper beech tree that Abraham Lincoln used to sit under to relax was 275-years-old when it eventually had to be cut down. Before you start hacking away at your beloved trees though, ask a professional arborist for advice. They will assess the situation and offer advice based on the health and location of the tree.
Martin’s Tree Service has years of experience dealing with tree related problems in Guelph, and here are some of the reasons that we would recommend removing an old tree:
- Many large dead branches could fall at any time and pose a risk to your personal safety or property.
- The tree is diseased and has internal decay or is infested with pests and cannot be saved.
- The roots have spread under the foundations of your home and are creating structural damage to your property.
- The roots have grown into your sewage or drainage system, causing leaks and blockages.
- Not indigenous to the area and is threatening the local ecosystem.
- Poorly positioned on the property and makes it difficult to use.
- Leaning at a precarious angle and is at risk of falling on your house, yard or children’s play area.
- The tree has sustained severe storm damage.
- You are building or doing renovations and the tree is in the way.
- The tree has become too large for the yard, or the yard is overcrowded with trees.
Caring for Old Trees
If you do decide to keep an old tree, you must commit to taking care of it. It is once again important to get help from professional tree services in Guelph who are able to advise you on how best to care for you your old trees and increase their longevity. This may include ongoing services like:
Regular fertilization
Correct branch trimming
Comprehensive pest management and disease control plan.
Removing an Old Tree
If an old tree with sentimental value has to be removed, it might not be entirely lost to you. Depending on its position and the condition of the tree, you may be able to save a small piece of it. You could incorporate the trunk into an outdoor table or child’s play area. Or you could cut logs into sections to use as garden stools. If you let your imagination run wild you will be able to come up with lots of ways to remember your old tree.
Tree removal is not a simple undertaking. It is a dangerous and risky task. One incorrect cut can cause serious injury to yourself or damage to your property. So if you have an old tree that really has to go, then get a professional to do the job. Ask for references and make sure the company is properly insured, has all the necessary safety equipment, and employs certified arborists. A reputable company like Martin’s Tree Service in Guelph will send out a qualified arborist to do a proper risk assessment of the trees on your property and, based on the results, will give you the best possible advice.
Steve Martin
