How to Cut Down a Tree

Sometimes it is necessary to remove a tree from your landscape. If you have a fruit tree that doesn't produce, a diseased tree or a tree that has died from insect infestation, don't simply chop it down, especially if the tree is near a building or road. Here's how to remove a tree correctly.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Work Gloves
• Rope
• Chain Saws
• Ladders
• Pruning Saws
• Safety Glasses

1. Use an orchard ladder to reach the uppermost branches. (An orchard ladder is a long ladder with one supporting leg; the narrow profile of this type of ladder makes it easy to place it inside the framework of the branches.) Tie a stout rope between the supporting leg and the rungs so that the ladder won't "let you down."

2. Start cutting at the top of the tree. Use a pruning saw or chain saw to remove the branching framework of the tree in manageable lengths. Try not to cut pieces that are larger and heavier than you can comfortably lift and move.

3. Move the ladder around the tree as you work. Don't try to stretch for those hard-to-reach branches. It's better to simply move the ladder.

4. Continue removing the branches, but remember to leave at least one main branch to support the ladder. Once you have most of the branches cut away, use a shorter ladder that will stand on its own.

5. Move the shorter ladder into position so that you can begin to remove the trunk, piece by piece. Remember to keep the pieces small so you can handle them easily. This may seem like a lot of cutting, but unless you have a tree chipper, it makes disposal much easier.

6. Cut the last section to within 6" of the ground.

7. Rent a stump remover to grind away the remaining stump. This machine makes quick work of tree stumps, but throws debris 25 - 30 feet. Aim it away from your home or the street before you start grinding.

8. Burn the sections of branches and trunk in the fireplace after they've dried.

Tips & Warnings

• If the tree is very large (over 25 feet in height), call a tree removal service.

• Cut the trunk into rounds to use as stepping stones on a garden path. This is easily done with a chain saw.

• Keep your saws sharp to make the job easier.

• Wear safety goggles and leather gloves when working around flying wood chips.