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Category: Tree Removal

When is the Best Time for Tree Felling

Nowadays, many garden enthusiasts invest in trees to enhance the overall appearance of their lawn. When installed in a row and maintained properly, they can act as hedging trees for the protection and privacy of one’s property. 

But there are instances when trees pose a risk in your garden space and the community. It can cause accidents and injuries when branches fall off, or the tree itself collapses. If you choose to avoid these threats, tree felling is the perfect solution. But, when is the best time for tree felling, you ask? Trees Down Under is here to give you the right answers. 

When Trees are No Longer Functional

Since dead trees don’t replenish nutrients or moisture from roots, its branches become brittle and susceptible to breakage. Dead trees are dangerous, especially if branches unexpectedly fall on roofs. Moreover, as the owner, it would be your responsibility when someone becomes a victim of accidents involving falling branches or trees located in your property. 

Furthermore, why keep dead trees when they are no longer functional? Trees with no foliage and flowers are unattractive to look at, and they can become a liability in the future. You can maximise their space for other plants or decorations to make your garden more visually appealing.   

Signs of an Unhealthy and Dangerous Tree

If trees are more than 50% unhealthy, it is the best solution to remove them. You can look for these signs:

It is best to consult with expert arborists to know if your tree needs removal or disease/pest prevention. 

Before a Storm

According to a study, the critical wind speed, where a tree trunk breaks, is at 145km/hr – regardless of its size or species type. So here in Australia, a category two storm or higher is enough to knock down trees and cause harm to the communities within its radius. 

Before they can claim lives and damage properties, it is best to remove trees, especially those that are not sturdy enough and reach towering height. However, distinguishing them can be quite challenging. Luckily, garden service companies like Trees Down Under offer consultation regarding different tree issues and other lawn problems. They also provide quick tree removal to prevent harm in the community as much as possible when a storm is coming. 

Dormant Season

In winter, deciduous trees fall asleep and rest, which is also known as their dormant season. They lose their leaves and prepare for the spring. Since they are leafless and relatively lighter, it is the best time to fell trees. Their lack of foliage helps arborists cut them carefully and clear the area faster. 

Moreover, a healthy tree can grow its leaves back and bloom after dormancy, but an unhealthy one poses a greater risk. Decaying branches are prone to fall since they need to carry the weight of the accumulated snow, but their link is also weakening.

Furthermore, garden service providers offer cheaper rates during winter as demand for tree and plant works decline. Also, it is easier to cut trees and their branches as the snow can catch fallen parts effortlessly.  

Conclusion

Trees provide aesthetic and privacy to one’s garden. But they can also become a hazard that needs to be taken care of immediately. The best time to conduct tree felling is the moment you feel that your trees are no longer of use, before a storm, or during its dormant season. But, remember that it is not a DIY project. Fortunately, Trees Down Under is here to help you!

Our expert arborists are professional tree fellers who have trained and studied for years to bring top-rate and efficient services. We understand that tree felling procedures are not easy. That’s why we always equip our team with the right tools and protective gears to ensure that your garden would be damage-free after the job. 

Aside from tree felling, we also offer different garden and tree services, customised according to your needs. Don’t worry about the rates, since even if it is not the dormant season, we offer affordable prices and discounts to our regular clients. 

Trees Down Under is your best choice for your tree felling needs! Contact us now at 0475 463 597 or send us your enquiries via email. 

How Dangerous is Tree Felling

It is common knowledge that trees are raw materials for paper and furniture making. But did you know that about 15.3 billion trees are chopped down every year for our benefit? Aside from making products, trees can also boost the aesthetic appeal of gardens and provide security to properties – also known as hedge trees. Thus, more and more people are investing in trees for their backyard. 

Even though you consider gardening as a past-time hobby, it still poses a severe risk when tree felling is involved. Tree felling is the process of knocking down or cutting trees for the benefit of the community. Especially before a severe storm, you need to remove your garden trees to prevent possible damages to houses and nearby infrastructures.   

However, it is not as easy as it sounds. Each year, more than 150 workers suffer from injuries involving tree work. Thus, fellers should not take the job lightly. So that you can further understand how dangerous tree feeling can be, here are some potential accidents that can happen.

Damage to Community and Properties

When fellers don’t know the right process and techniques in tree felling, properties and lives are at stake. Trees are large and heavy enough to damage roofs and break concrete walls. So, anyone within their perimeter is at risk of crush injuries or in the worst-case scenario, death.  

Moreover, fallen trees are not easy to remove. Without immediate removal, it can cause traffic delays and trip hazards. Furthermore, local council pickups don’t take garden wastes that are heavier than 100kg. Luckily, Trees Down Under offers quick and same-day tree removal to avoid these unnecessary inconveniences.  

Fall from Height

One of the techniques in tree felling is by cutting parts by parts. However, as branches are quite up high, ladders are necessary to reach them. The risk of falling branches while balancing with heavy equipment creates a significant potential for workers to fall.  

Make sure that when asking for assistance from arborists, they are knowledgeable enough to conduct safe tree services, and they have insurance when accidents happen. 

Dangers Caused by Machinery and Tools

Chainsaws, shredders, and other cutting tools pose a danger to the health and safety of the fellers. Machines that penetrate thick tree trunks can easily do the same with human bodies. They can cut skins deeply or an entire body part when safety measures are ignored. 

Under the Work Health and Safety Regulations, anyone who will conduct tree work, including tree felling, must comply with the Guide on Managing Risks of Tree Trimming and Removal Work. 

Electric Shock

Working around power lines during tree felling is dangerous as it can cause electric shock. Without proper planning and execution, falling trees can hit electric poles or wires and cause electrocution. The shock itself can be life-threatening, which is why it’s always important to have a reputable emergency electrician you can call. Electrical safety is always essential, especially if involved with metal tools such as chainsaws and shredders. 

Bee or Wasp Stings

Aside from causing extreme injuries, tree felling can also negatively affect one’s health and well-being. For example, tree houses bee nests, which if disturbed, can lead to sting attacks. While some might find them just as painful, some people react worse and cause anaphylaxis allergy. It can cause severe swelling of the face, breathing difficulties, dizziness, vomiting, or loss of consciousness. 

Conclusion

When opting to plant trees in your backyard, you need to know their potential risks, not only for your safety but for the community as well. Furthermore, there will be a time when you need to remove trees to avoid possible hazards. Tree felling can be dangerous. It can damage properties and the community, prompt injuries and shock due to fall, machinery, tools, and bee stings. That’s why fellers should know the right and safe procedures to prevent accidents from happening.

Here at Trees Down Under, we know how dangerous tree felling can be. So, we have developed a safe and excellent tree felling service tailored according to your needs. You don’t need to worry about accidents since we make sure to dispatch the most skilled and trained arborists here in Sydney.   

We have the right tools and equipment to bring you premium and quality services. Since 2005, we have established our name and serviced thousands of clients who need us for their residential, commercial, and industrial gardens. 

So, for the best tree felling service in Sydney, contact us at 0475 463 597 or send us your enquiries via email. 

Advanced Tree Felling Techniques Used by Pros

Most garden owners choose to plant trees to enhance the beauty of their garden space. Trees can bloom attractive and colourful foliage and flowers that could make passersby in awe. Furthermore, they can act as a boundary mark and security for your place – also known as hedge trees. 

However, there are times when trees are potential threats to the safety of your property and the neighbourhood. They are prone to fall when heavy winds and storms come or when vehicular accidents happen. That is why tree felling is crucial to avoid injuries and damage to properties as much as possible. 

What is Tree Felling?

Tree felling is the method of removing or cutting trees through its base trunk for creating products or preventing accidents in the community. Note that it is not a DIY task and requires professional arborists for a safe procedure. Moreover, the factors to consider are landing area, wind direction, species type, leaning position, terrain, and local laws and regulations.  

In NSW, at least 150 workers suffer due to tree work every year. So, careful planning and execution are essential to do the job explicitly and without faults. Today, Trees Down Under is here to teach advanced tree felling techniques used by pros to avoid improper cutting and accidents from happening. 

Traditional Method of Tree Felling

Before learning advanced tricks, it is vital to grasp the basic knowledge of tree felling. The traditional method involves a notch and a back cut on opposite sides. The angled chop, which is the notch, is the direction where the tree would fall. Meanwhile, the back cut eases the stress on the back part of the tree during felling.

The traditional method requires fellers to cut in the bottom portion of the trunk. While some might be comfortable with this procedure as it is the practice for many years, it could lead to the so-called barber chair. It means that before the fellers cut the hinge thin enough for the tree to bend, it divides vertically. That would mean, the direction of fall would not be controlled and may soon cause accidents.  

Advanced Tree Felling Techniques

In tree felling procedure, we don’t want to cause injuries to anyone. That’s why it is essential to know the right techniques. However, depending on the circumstance and environment, fellers need to know some advanced tree felling techniques. Here are some of them:

Bore Cut

One way to prevent the barber chair is through a bore cut. It uses a chainsaw to penetrate a cut through the centre of the trunk at right angles. In this way, the back part of the trunk would be more intact to hold the tree upright. 

Just a friendly reminder in using a bore cut, lead the saw with the bottom of the bar tip instead of the top. Then, when the bar tip is covered by wood, rotate the saw and plunge it through the tree. 

Tree Driving

Tree driving is like hitting two birds with one stone. It involves knocking down one tree to take down another. Both trees require partial cuts, or the second tree could have fallen and caught up in branches. 

The driving tree should be tall and heavy enough to take down the second tree. Also, it should ideally have a natural lean to make the other trees fall, suitably. But, note that fellers should take extra precaution and planning as it involves felling several trees.  

Felling Aids

After a standard notch and back cut, felling aids help trees to fall carefully and securely. Metal breaking bars can slip into the back cut and help fellers leverage the tree in its direction of fall. Furthermore, wedges, also placed in the back cut, can hold the tree and stop it from sitting back. Lastly, a sledgehammer can knock down a tree in its right direction, safely.  

Piece-By-Piece Removal

In cases of residential or commercial properties, professionals fell a tree piece by piece. After they secure the largest portion of the tree with a crane, they begin cutting branches and trunks. In this way, they can avoid damages to properties and the risk of hitting passersby.  

Back Pulling

Back pulling uses a winch system to pull a tree against its natural lean. In this way, dropping trees can avoid buildings and power lines. Moreover, it positions the tree better for the felling procedure. Professionals set the winch up as high as possible to control better the direction of the fall. 

Conclusion

Tree felling is the process of knocking and cutting down trees. Note that it is not as easy as it seems. Careful planning and the right methods are essential to do the job without accidents and damages to properties. But basic knowledge is not enough. Pros should practice advanced tree felling techniques for a more efficient and safe manner of handling tree removal. 

Here at Trees Down Under, we are your one call away friend for advanced tree felling procedures. Our team of professional arborists and fellers have years of experience to bring quality and top-notch tree services. 

We understand the hazards of tree felling. So, we make sure to do the job following the standard procedure and local regulations of the council. Moreover, we gear ourselves with the right tools and equipment to ensure the safety of the workers. 

Expect us to deliver top-rate and affordable tree felling services. Contact us now at 0475 463 597, or send us your enquiries via email. 

6 Special Tree Wedging Cuts for Difficult Trees

Trees provide balance in the ecosystem. They give off oxygen for humans and animals, and they absorb carbon dioxide, which is a harmful component of greenhouse gases. Did you know that a single tree can provide a day’s supply of oxygen for four people? As they bring fresh air and help clear pollutants, many garden owners are investing in planting them. 

However, along with their benefits, there are safety precautions needed. Trees can become fall hazards when car accidents happen, or heavy winds and storms approach. So, removing them might save lives and properties.    

But it is not an easy job. Each year, more than 150 people encounter injuries while conducting tree work. That’s why arborists need proper techniques and equipment. To prevent accidents, Trees Down Under is here to present six special tree wedging cuts for difficult trees.  

  1. Hinge Cutting With a Wedge

Standard tree felling procedure involves making a notch and a back cut. Their ends meet near a hinge, which results in a falling tree in the notch direction. However in hinge cutting aided by a wedge, fellers tip them over with a back cut only, and the trunk remains attached to the stump. 

Most foresters use this technique to create habitat and food for deers. The tree can live for years if they leave a requisite amount of wood meat, which is a perfect place for deers to settle. 

  1. Wedging Trees With a Back Lean

It is easier to fell a tree in its leaning direction. But if the position or surrounding does not allow it for safety reasons, then felling in the opposite direction is the right solution. With wedges and shims as tools to lift the trunk off the stump, one can fell a tree to an intended location. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Quarter-Cut Back-Cut

Professional arborists or fellers use the quarter-cut back-cut technique in dealing with trees that have an exceedingly large diameter. It involves making the back cut in two movements. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide:

  1. Split Level Back Cut

For leaning back trees with small diameters, split level back cut is ideal. Its procedure is the same as quarter-cut back-cut except that the final cut angles below and overlaps the first cut slightly. 

Setting up the wedge in the first cut helps in positioning the felling direction. Meanwhile, sloping the second cut minimises the risk of hitting the wedge with a saw. Then, it makes an even back cut on both sides of the tree. 

  1. Heavy Forward Leaners

Heavy forward learners are trees that significantly angled more than usual. They are difficult to fell since barber chair – which vertically divides trees before they fall – would likely occur. To deal with this kind of tree, here are the steps to follow: 

  1. Tree Felling of Medium-Sized Trees

Medium-sized trees also need care in terms of tree felling. In the case where the saw penetrates through the tree, the conventional method is enough. But adding wedges ensures more precise and accurate results. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Conclusion

Tree felling is not as easy as it sounds. It requires professional knowledge and tools for a safe and accident-free finish. Moreover, some difficult trees need more care than usual. With the presented six special tree wedging cuts, fellers should use them for a more efficient and secure tree felling procedure. 

Here at Trees Down Under, we understand the need for a safe and hassle-free tree removal. Our team of professional fellers and arborists trained special techniques in tree felling to give you top-rate and excellent services. 

So, if you encounter any tree and garden concerns, don’t hesitate to call us. At the earliest time possible, our friendly staff will be at your place, equipped with the right tools and machinery.   

We provide garden solutions to residential, commercial, and industrial establishments. Contact us at 0475 463 597, or send your enquiries via email.

How to Ring Bark a Tree

Trees are a wonderful creation. They provide us with fruits, shade, and fresh air. Other animals also benefit from trees because trees provide them with shelter and food. Despite the numerous benefits that trees offer, sometimes, we have to get rid of them when they are invasive or become a weed.

Unknown to many people, tree felling is not the only way to kill trees. Another unsung practice of killing trees goes by the name ring barking.

What is Ring Barking?

Ring barking or girdling is the process of completely stripping off a part of the bark of a tree around the circumference of the main trunk or branches. The bark is the outermost portion of the tree which includes the cork, phloem, and cambium. Removing these tissues can significantly impact the function and health of the ring-barked tree.

Originally, people used ring barking as a way to control the tree population and thin forests without felling the tree. In simpler terms, ring barking kills trees. The portion above the ringbark dies if the tree does not recover from the wound. It also compromises the immunity of the tree and places it under stress. Moreover, phloem disruption also alters the food and nutrient appropriation of the tree.

Benefits of Ring Barking

Safe way to Kill Trees

Killing a tree is sometimes necessary, especially if it has become a weed or if it’s an invasive species. Girdling is a safe and easy way to kill trees because you don’t have to cut down the tree. Felling a tree is much more dangerous and laborious than cutting a portion of the bark of a tree. With ring barking, you don’t have to deal with all the weight of the tree and you also don’t have to worry about tree disposal because you won’t have anything to dispose of.

Produce more and larger fruits

Ring barking is a useful technique in horticulture. The damage to phloem caused by girdling stimulates flower development. Moreover, it makes food and energy produced in the leaves impossible to reach the roots. So, the tree needs to redirect these sugars and carbohydrates to other parts and these other parts are fruits. As a result, fruits grow more in number and in size than normal. 

Control the size of the tree

Ring barking your tree is also helpful when you want to prevent your tree from overgrowing. Removing the bark of your tree around the circumference can control the growth of your tree so that you would need less pruning in the future. 

How to Ring Bark a Tree

Ring barking is an easy process of killing trees. You only need a few tools to get the job done. Make sure to put on some gloves and eye goggles for safety purposes. Below are the steps on how to perform proper ring barking

Step 1: Mark areas to cut

Find the part of the trunk where you want to remove the bark, preferably below the lowest set of branches. Mark two points that are at least 3 inches apart where you will cut the bark around the circumference of the trunk. 

Step 2: Start stripping the bark

Once you have marked the areas where to cut, use an axe or a chainsaw to work your way around the tree. Cut parallel grooves around the tree and then strip the bark in between these lines. Start with the outer bark and then the inner. 

The extent of ring barking a tree depends on your intent. If you want to kill the tree, you should remove the bark deep enough so that the tree does not heal and recover. On the other hand, if you just want to control the size of the tree or increase its fruit production, you should be more careful. Strip around 1 to 1 and a half inches deep into the bark of the tree using a chisel or axe. 

Dangers of Ring Barking

Ring barking kills trees. Even if it doesn’t, it still leaves trees susceptible to diseases and pest infestation. Girdling weakens the immune system of trees and places it under stress. That’s why you need to be careful when performing ring barking, especially when you do not intend to kill the tree. 

You should also be mindful of the structural integrity of the tree. Removing the bark too deep may cause the tree to fall if there are extreme weather conditions like strong winds, earthquakes, heavy rains and snow.

Trees Down Under can help you ring bark a tree correctly. We have a team of licensed and dedicated arborists who can finish the job safely and efficiently. For all sorts of tree services in Sydney, just give us a call at 0475 463 597, and we’ll respond quickly. We are around Sydney to provide solutions for your tree and garden needs. 

How to Make a Possum Proof Garden

The common brushtail possum is perhaps the most familiar marsupial in Australia. They can adapt to various kinds of environment, that’s why they hang around the urban areas and busy cities of Australia. While the high adaptability of possums may be amusing, it’s actually alarming especially to a lot of homeowners. Possums may be small and adorable, but they can be pesky and cause considerable damage to houses and gardens.

Importance of Possum-proofing your Garden

Possums are folivores. They feed on the leaves, flowers, buds, fruits that are abundantly present in your garden. These creatures can overgraze and damage the plants and trees in your yard, especially at night when these nocturnal animals are awake. 

Possums may also find their way into your home and dwell in the ceilings and recesses of your house. When they do so, their occasional stomps and noises may bother you. You’ll also find it frustrating to find your ceiling wreaking the smell of possum urine and faeces. 

If you don’t want to have more problems caused by these creatures, you need to stop them before they get into your house. That’s why you need to possum-proof your garden to hit two birds with one stone. Possum-proofing your garden can save your trees and plants and, at the same time, prevent possums from accessing your home.

How to Possum-Proof Your Garden

The Australian government considers possums as a protected animal. Thus, under the National Parks and Wildlife Act, you cannot harm or trap possums. The only option you have left is to protect your garden from these grazers by deterring them. Here’s our take on how to make your garden possum-proof:

Install possum banding for your trees

A possum band is a sheet of polycarbonate or colour bond that you wrap around the main stem or branches of trees. This band makes climbing impossible for possums because it is slippery and possums won’t have anything to cling on.  This can also deter other animals that may graze on the foliage, fruits, and flowers of your trees.

Deter possums with an unpleasant smell

Possums use their sense of smell to find food. That’s how they find their way into your garden. To prevent them from feasting on the leaves and fruits in your yard, try rubbing menthol and placing mothballs in the perimeter of your garden or in tree branches and trunks. Possums find the scent of these items appalling such that they wouldn’t attempt to enter your premises anymore.

Fence as Defences

You can keep your garden safe from possums by securing it with a fence or barrier. Make this structure impervious to possum access by depriving them with anything to grip on. You can add a rolling tube or a floppy wire at the top so that possums fall when they try to climb on the fence.

Prune trees to reduce possum access

Fencing your area would go to waste if you provide another route for possums to access your garden. Thus, you need to cut the branches of your trees that are near or connected to neighbouring structures such as trees, buildings, and fences since possums can use these branches to enter your yard. 

Install individual plant barriers

If in case possums breached the barriers around your garden, you need to have a second line of defence in the form of plant covers. Try installing a wire cage around fruit trees and shrubs so that possums can’t go near them. This structure can also prevent other animals such as birds and cats from feeding on the fruits and flowers of your plants.

Garden and Tree Solutions in Sydney

Possums can cause significant damage to your plants and trees. If you don’t take measures to prevent them, they will graze on the foliage, fruits and flowers in your yard. Before you know it, your trees and plants have already lost most of their leaves, fruits, and flowers due to possum attack. 

Trees Down Under is here to provide solutions for your possum problems. We can install possum-proofing structures like possum band and fences to keep your trees and plants protected from these grazing creatures. We also offer quality tree pruning services to limit the access of possums. 

Our workers here are reliable, friendly, and dedicated. If you need any possum-proofing assistance, don’t hesitate to call us at 0475 463 597. We’re just around Sydney, so we’re at your service anytime. 

DIY Tree Crown Lifting

The growth pattern of trees is beautiful in their natural way. However, if you let trees grow undisturbed, they may overgrow. Low visibility, accessibility, and brightness are some problems you may encounter with an overgrown tree. When this happens, you need not take drastic measures and remove the tree immediately. Try crown lifting, and see how this process can instantaneously take away the said problems without harming the tree.

What is Tree Crown Lifting?

Crown lifting is a pruning technique wherein you cut the lower limbs of the tree to lift the height of the base of the foliage. This provides the tree with a taller canopy and more clearance area underneath. 

Tree Crown Lifting Procedure

Crown lifting is a straightforward process. You only need the proper cutting tools like a saw and pruning shears and a pair of gloves. Once you have these pieces of equipment, you’re good to go.

Step 1: Examine the tree

Do an initial assessment of the tree. Look at the tree at different points of view and from afar. This would help you estimate how far up the tree you need to remove the branches. 

Step 2: Cut the lower small branches

Start cutting the lowest branches. Make sure to get a clean cut that is slightly angled. Also, provide at least a 5 mm allowance before the trunk of the tree to prevent damaging the main stem should there be decay or infection from the cut.

To give you a pro tip: start cutting from the underside of the branch until you’re ⅓ through. Then, cut the branch completely from the top. This technique not only gives you a clean cut, it also minimises damage and allows the tree to heal correctly.

Step 3: Remove large branches carefully

You need extra caution when removing large branches, as doing so produces large wounds that would significantly affect the tree’s health. Cutting large tree limbs could cause stress and even lead to decay. That’s why you need to cut large branches one step at a time. 

Reduce the length bit by bit until you reach that 5 mm allowance before the main trunk. Cutting large branches this way produces less damage to the tree. It’s also safer for you since you won’t worry about supporting and carrying the weight of the whole branch because they’re cut into pieces.

Benefits of Tree Crown Lifting

Tree crown lifting is more than just a garden beautification technique. It is also practical and beneficial in so many ways. Here are some reasons why you need to lift your tree’s crown:

Healthier Tree

Crown lifting, when done correctly, results in a healthier tree because of increased light and air. Reducing the lower branches also allows the tree to redirect its nutrients and resources to other branches and parts.

More clearance area

This is perhaps the main reason why you need to lift the height of the base of your tree’s crown. Clearing the lower branches of your tree provides more access and visibility below the tree. This is especially helpful when a tree is blocking the view of drivers and the way of cars and passers-by. 

Reduce interference

More clearance area means that the lower branches of your tree would not obstruct other structures like fences, cable lines, and other plants. 

Increase light levels

More branches and a thick canopy equal more shade. Reducing the lower branches of your tree is the best alternative to cutting down the entire tree. Crown lifting allows more light to pass through, thus, more brightness and clarity.

Aesthetics

Tree crown lifting can beautify the tree and, consequently, your garden. Cutting down the lower branches makes the tree proportionate and more appealing. More than that, it also illuminates your garden so that you can see your whole landscape vividly. 

Conclusion

Tree crown lifting can be a DIY task. You don’t need expert knowledge and skills to do this process. It also doesn’t require complicated tools and equipment – a saw and a pair of gloves will suffice. 

However, you still need to have enough knowledge of trees and safe pruning techniques. Cutting large branches incorrectly can cause trees stress and prolong their recovery process. This can also cause fungal diseases and pest infestation and can lead to death in the long run. 

If you don’t want to take risks, better leave the work to the professionals. At Trees Down Under, we take every tree-related jobs seriously. We understand that anything we do to trees can cause significant stress and damage to them. That’s why our trained arborists strive to get the job done safely and correctly. We have the right tools, skills, and knowledge to cut and prune trees in the safest way possible.

Need tree lopping services in Sydney? Call us anytime at 0475 463 597 to get a free quote. We’re just around Sydney, so we can attend to your needs fast and efficiently.

Widowmaker Tree Removal: How to Identify and Handle Safely

Tree removal is a dangerous job, especially if you’re not trained and knowledgeable to do so. Aside from the massive and heavy characteristic of trees, another factor that makes tree removal risky is the presence of broken and hanging limbs. These dislodged tree branches are dangerous because they can damage properties and cause injuries and death to people.

Eucalyptus or Gum tree has rightfully earned the nickname widowmaker. This tree is notorious for losing its limbs to preserve its overall wellness when there is a drought or inadequate water supply. As a result, fallen branches cause accidents to people. Broken Gum tree limbs have also caused the deaths of many tree loppers, causing their wives to become widows

Identifying Widowmaker Trees

A wide range of Eucalyptus tree species is native to Australia. This tree can reach a height of 40 metres or higher, which makes the impact of falling tree limbs stronger and more deadly. Another distinctive feature of eucalyptus trees includes its sickle-shaped leaves that are dark green. These leaves are covered in oil glands that release the characteristic menthol, peppermint, or lemon scent.

Aside from Eucalypts, other trees can also be widowmakers when they have broken or suspended branches. These hanging tree limbs can potentially cause deaths when they fall. However, widowmakers may be difficult to detect, especially in thick tree covers. Here are some widowmaker qualities to watch out for:

Safety Around Widowmaker Trees

It is dangerous to go near widowmaker trees. Thus, the best way to deal with them is to avoid them. Here are a few measures on how you can be safe around widowmaker trees.

Safe Widowmaker Tree Removal

Due to the dangers posed by widowmaker trees. It is best to let the professionals handle them. They have the right tools and equipment to remove and prune widowmaker trees. Moreover, they are also trained to deal with these deadly trees in the safest manner possible. Here are some techniques from an arborist on how you can handle widowmaker trees safely:

Secure the area

Part of ensuring safety while removing a widowmaker tree is to make sure that no other people are in the area. Thus, it’s best to restrict the area to avoid collateral damage and to minimise accidents. Moreover, it’s best if only the people who are working on the tree are in the restricted area, and they should be wearing safety gears.

Do a rain check, literally

Check the weather before working on widowmaker trees. It’s risky to even go near them when it’s windy, raining, or snowing since these conditions can hasten the falling of a widowmaker tree or branch.

Wear protective equipment

Keep yourself protected from falling tree branches by wearing protective and safety gears like a hard hat and gloves. 

Scan the canopy

Do a quick check on the canopy to spot widowmaker branches. When you find them, carefully remove them first before working on the whole tree. 

Work in late fall to early winter

Late autumn to early winter is arguably the best time to work around widowmaker trees. During this season, deciduous trees don’t have leaves anymore so it’s easier to remove and prune widowmaker branches because you can easily identify them.

Tree Removal Services in Sydney

Trees Down Under is one of the most reliable tree removal companies in Sydney. No matter how big the tree is or how dangerous and difficult it is to remove, we can handle it. You can trust us to safely deal with all the risks posed by widowmaker trees. Our team of trained arborists possess the right tools and skills to keep everyone safe.

We are fully aware of how unsafe it is to work around widowmaker trees. That’s why here at Trees Down Under, we don’t only aim for quality and efficiency, we also strive for safety through careful and systematic tree removal services. We also offer tree pruning to minimise the risks caused by broken and dislodged tree limbs.
Need emergency tree removal services? Contact us anytime at 0475 463 597, and we’ll respond quickly.

Tree Removal Laws in NSW

There are many reasons why you would want to remove a tree. The tree could be dying, blocking the way for construction, or posing risks of injuries and damage to properties. Although it may be tempting to cut down trees on your property immediately, you must proceed with caution. Thoughtless tree removal in Australia could cost you a significant amount of money for fines. 

The local council of NSW protects trees in the region through tree removal laws stated in the state’s Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and the Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Thus, before you can cut down trees, you must first obtain a permit and authorisation from the local council. Familiarising yourself with the following laws can also assist you with tree cutting.

Protected Trees

NSW recognises several tree species protected. The cities in NSW consider the significance of trees in terms of:

The local council of NSW are strict when it comes to removing and pruning trees that they listed as significant and protected. You may not even cut down trees found in your yard unless you’ve obtained the permission from the local council. Additionally, the board may also ask you to provide them with compelling reasons why you should remove the tree.

Some tree species listed in NSW’s Register of Significant Trees are:

Exempt Trees

In general, you can remove unprotected trees at your will. However, they should have a height and foliage size of at least 5 metres and a trunk diameter of at least 300 mm. You can remove trees that meet these criteria even without a council permit. 

You are also exempted from obtaining council permit if you’re cutting down tree species that are invasive and considered pests. Moreover, these trees do not need to match the criteria mentioned above for you to remove them. 

Although there are exempt trees, you may still get into trouble if you’re uncertain of the tree species you want to remove. Hence, you may want to read up on the registry of significant trees in NSW or ask the help of professionals to be sure.

10/50 Vegetation Rule

The 10/50 law aims to protect people living within 100 metres of bushland. These areas are prone to catch fire, especially during scorching weathers. Thus, if you live or have a property in bushfire-prone zones, you can clear trees and vegetation that are within 10 to 50 metres from the outermost wall of your home or building. You can do so without asking for permission from the local government. However, there are still conditions.

Your method of cutting trees and vegetation should not alter the profile of the soil underneath. The local council does not permit bulldozing, ploughing, and burning as a form of clearing practice. If your land is on a slope, you are not covered by the 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Rule because of the high erosion in your area. You cannot cut trees in sloping lands because they play a significant role in erosion control. 

Penalties For Removing Significant Trees

If you’ve had a protected tree removed without the approval of the local council, the local court may charge you a maximum fine of $110,000. On the other hand, you may need to pay up to $1.1 million in the Land and Environment Court. 

Tree Removal Solutions in Sydney

You can always do tree removal by yourself. However, nothing beats the work of professional tree fellers. Tree removal experts possess the skills, knowledge, and experience to finish the job safely and efficiently. Moreover, they also have the proper tools and equipment to do the job right and fast.

Our workers here at Trees Down Under have all of these and more. Our team of trained tree fellers maintain the dedication to every work that we do. It is our goal to provide you with quality and safe tree removal services. Aside from that, we also offer garden and landscape services, green waste removal, and mulching. Trees Down Under remains your reliable service provider for your garden and tree needs.

Need emergency tree removal services? Contact us anytime at 0475 463 597, and we’ll be right where you need us to be.

Types of Autumn Trees in NSW

The autumn season is one of the best times to visit NSW. We’re not just talking about the crisp air and fair weather. We’re talking about the trees, shrubs, vines, and vegetation that turn the region almost entirely into bright and vivid colours. That’s the spectacular scenery you picture in your mind when you think of autumn. 

Autumn in NSW falls from March to May. During this period, the foliage of autumn trees and plants turn into shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, and brown. These trees are deciduous trees that lose their leaves every year after they change colours. Several deciduous trees put on a breathtaking autumn display in NSW. Spot the following trees when you stroll around in NSW:

Magnolia

The deciduous species of Magnolia tree is one of the favourites when it comes to autumn sightseeing. Deciduous Magnolia can resist low temperatures and have an attractive form. Its foliage naturally changes colour and sheds in autumn to prepare the blooming of the tree in the following winter season. 

Japanese Maple

The Japanese Maple tree has a vibrant fire-like foliage in the autumn. Each leaf turns into multi-colours with red, yellow, and orange blending together. The Japanese Maple is a small tree that can grow up to 10 to 15 feet tall and 5 to 7 feet wide. Aside from being a stunning attraction in the fall, Japanese Maple is also a pleasant sight in the spring when its pink flowers bloom.

Claret Ash

The Claret Ash is another favourite of autumn-lovers in NSW. The leaves of Claret Ash gives off a wine to a deep purple colour in fall. The tree is fast-growing, especially in the temperate parts of the region like Sydney. Claret Ash is also drought-tolerant and can grow in any soil type. It can reach a height of about 20 metres.

Chinese Pistachio

This small tree has a maximum height of 8 metres. Despite its stature, Chinese Pistachio is a striking deciduous tree in the fall with intense yellow, orange and scarlet canopy, making it a great addition to gardens and street sides. 

Chinese Tallow Tree

Chinese Tallow Tree is one of the best providers of vibrant colours in warmer areas of NSW. The autumn leaves of this tree are yellow, orange and burgundy-coloured. Chinese Tallow tree is tolerant of drought and adaptable to any type of soil. It has a medium height and can grow to around 8 to 10 metres tall. 

Tupelo

Tupelo trees turn bright scarlet in autumn from their dark green foliage. This tree can grow to around 10 metres tall. Tupelo has characteristic dark stems and branches that accentuate the warm hues of red, yellow, orange, and scarlet foliage.

Liquidambar

Another fast-growing autumn tree in NSW is Liquidambars. This large tree can grow about 30 metres in height and 10 metres in width. It is one of the most adaptable deciduous trees. Liquidambar, or sweet gum, turns scarlet, orange, yellow, and crimson in fall. This tree can grow in any kind of soil, but it should have ample space and deep root foundation.

Ginkgo 

The fan-shaped leaves of the Ginkgo tree put on a spectacular scenery in autumn when they turn into bright yellow. This tree is slow-growing and large. It can reach a height of 30 metres and is best planted in loam or clay soils so that it can deeply root and have a strong foundation.

Flowering Cherry

While Cherry Blossoms are best known for their flowers in the spring, this tree is also a famous deciduous tree in autumn. Flowering Cherry offers autumn enthusiasts with a breathtaking display of yellow, orange, and crimson-coloured foliage. 

Where should I head in the Autumn?

Also known as the “colour city,” Orange is one of the most highly recommended places to visit in NSW. Only three hours away from Sydney, this city is worth visiting because of the high volume of deciduous trees that paint the city red, orange, and yellow. Travelling to Orange city is an excellent experience for autumn lovers due to the vivid warm colours provided by the autumn trees lining the main roads of the city.

Garden and Tree Services in Sydney

The lovely colours of deciduous trees are also a sight to behold in Sydney. Several favourite autumn spots are available in the Sydney area like in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Auburn Botanic Garden, Centennial Parklands, and The Rumsey Heritage Rose Garden where autumn trees are abundant.

However, it’s also possible to have that autumn view right in your backyard. Trees Down Under can help you have that magnificent autumn scenery without travelling hours from your home. Our team of dedicated landscapers and tree experts can help you with your tree and garden needs. Moreover, we also provide green waste removal to deal with all the fallen leaves in your yard. 

Trees Down Under is your trusted and reliable company to provide quality garden and tree solutions. Contact us now at 0475 463 597 to get a free quote.

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