Gardening Tips: How to Remove a Small Tree

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Need to remove a tree? Well, then you’ve come to the right place.

Trees can be a lovely addition to any garden. But when they’re rotting or just in a bad spot, they can do more harm than good. But there are a few things you can do to ensure your little tree is removed properly.

Ready to get gardening? Keep reading to learn how to remove a small tree from your yard.

Water the Tree Beforehand

Start the process by watering your tree the day before you’re going to remove it.

This will ensure the soil is well saturated and easier to shovel. And if you’re looking to transplant your tree afterward, this will decrease any damage to the tree roots.

Measure the Area

Begin by measuring the trunk’s diameter. For every 1 inch of the trunk’s diameter, there will be 9 to 12 inches of root ball diameter and 6 inches of depth. This measuring ensures the root ball will stay intact when you lift it out of the ground.

For example, if the trunk diameter is 2 inches, your root ball should have a diameter of 18 to 24 inches and a depth of 12 inches.

Dig and Pull

Once you have the area measured out, remove the top layer of soil with a shovel and tie up any low-hanging branches. Dig around the calculated circumference and depth of the root ball.

To remove the root ball, get under it with your shovel, wiggle it around, and pull it out using leverage from the shovel. Cut off any roots that are keeping the root ball stuck in the soil with pruning shears.

Transplant or Dispose

If you’re looking to transplant your tree after removal, the root ball has to be intact. To prepare for this, wrap the ball in a burlap sack or a tarp until you’ve dug the other hole for transplant. This keeps both the roots and the soil moist.

If you choose to dispose of your tree, you have to chop it up with a saw or chainsaw first. This requires an abundance of caution as well as gloves, goggles, and earplugs.

Call the Experts, if Necessary

If your tree is too big or these small tree removal tips aren’t for you, try calling tree removal services. The removal experts will likely inspect the area, explain their plan of execution, and remove the tree in a timely manner.

This will ensure that your tree is properly taken care of and your garden isn’t damaged in any way.

Now You Know How To Remove a Small Tree

Now that you know how to remove a small tree, you got this! And with just a measuring tape, a shovel, and a little patience, your tree will be out in no time. But if you do get stumped, just remember you can always call in for backup.

If you found this article helpful, check out more of our DIY gardening content!

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