Trees are absolutely incredible, bringing character, shade, privacy and beauty to a garden when they’re in the right place and well looked after. However, there are times when removing a tree is simply the right decision whether for safety, for space, or simply because it no longer fits the needs of your garden.
It might be growing too close to your home. Its roots could be disturbing paving or underground services. It may be blocking out light, crowding other plants, or simply not fitting with your future plans for the space. In some cases, it’s a safety issue, a dying tree, or one that’s already dead, can pose a serious risk to people and property if left standing.
At GGM Landscaping, we’ve worked with everything from small ornamental trees to large, mature specimens with wide trunks and deep root systems. And while it’s tempting to try a bit of DIY tree removal, the risks involved make it something best left to professionals.
DIY tree removal: why it’s not worth the risk
Trying to remove a tree on your own might feel like a practical weekend project, especially if the tree is small. But the risks quickly stack up. Chainsaws can kick back. Tree trunks can twist unexpectedly. If you don’t determine which way the tree will fall, it may land in exactly the place you don’t want it to.
We’ve been called in after DIY removals have gone wrong. The most common issues we see are:
- Trees falling the wrong way, damaging fences or sheds
- Stumps left behind that begin to regrow or rot
- Property owners unknowingly cutting a tree with a preservation order
- Incomplete root removal causing future drainage or landscaping issues
Removing small trees can be deceptive. Even if the tree is small, its root ball can still interfere with paths, utilities or nearby planting areas. Without training, it’s hard to tell whether pruning a tree is enough or if full tree removal is needed. Some trees, especially those leaning or showing signs of rot, can be unstable and extremely difficult to remove safely.
If you’re thinking about cutting down a tree, ask yourself this. Do you know how to handle the stump? Do you know the way the tree will fall? Are you confident that you’re allowed to remove the tree without breaching local tree preservation rules?
Hiring a professional tree surgeon is always the best choice
When you hire a professional tree surgeon, you’re not just getting someone to cut through the trunk. You’re getting an experienced expert who understands how trees behave and how to remove them safely. That includes knowledge of tree preservation regulations, understanding of root systems, and the ability to use a stump grinder to remove stumps properly.
At GGM Landscaping, our trained tree removal team knows exactly how to approach each job. We remove dead trees, living trees, palm trees, large trees with thick trunks, and small ornamental trees with care and attention. No two removals are ever the same.
Our process: safe and complete tree removal
The first step is a site visit and assessment. We look at the size of the tree, the diameter of the trunk, how the tree is leaning, and what’s around it. If a tree has a TPO (tree preservation order), we’ll advise you to speak with the tree officer at your local authority before moving forward.
Once we understand the surroundings and the condition of the tree, we plan the best way to remove it. Depending on the size and access, we may fell the tree in one piece or dismantle it in sections. We never begin until we’ve determined the safest way to proceed.
After removal, we deal with the stump. For shallow stumps, we may pull them out by hand. For deeper root systems, we use a stump grinder. We move the grinder around the stump carefully, grinding it well below surface level to prevent regrowth. The aim is to leave your garden clean, flat and ready for whatever comes next.
We also offer full clearance of branches, logs and sawdust, so you’re not left with a pile of debris after the job is done.
What types of trees do we remove?
We handle everything from small tree removal to large tree felling. Some clients want to remove a small tree that was planted too close to the house. Others want to remove a dead tree that’s become unsafe. Some want to cut the tree to make space for a patio, new lawn or extension. In each case, we look at what’s natural for the tree and what’s best for your garden.
If you want the tree to fall a certain way, or if the tree is touching your house or utility lines, that adds to the complexity. We factor in all risks before we even switch on a saw. We’re often called in to deal with trees that are difficult to remove because of access, slope or the presence of large roots.
What happens to the roots?
Removing trees is not just about what’s above the ground. Tree roots can spread widely depending on the species. If left, they can interfere with landscaping or continue to sprout. We use professional stump grinders to deal with root systems properly. Depending on the size of the tree, we may recommend different methods to remove stumps fully and prevent future problems.
Costs and considerations
The cost to remove a tree depends on several factors. These include the size of the tree, the complexity of the job, access to the site, and whether stump grinding is included. Cutting down the tree may be straightforward, but grinding out the root ball or removing large roots may require extra time and specialist equipment.
We provide free site visits and clear quotes with no hidden fees. Whether you want to cut a small tree or remove the entire tree including the stump and roots, we’ll talk you through the options.
Want to remove a tree safely and completely?
At GGM Landscaping, we offer more than just tree removal. We offer peace of mind. We’re trained, insured, and experienced. Whether you’re dealing with a tree with a diameter over 60cm, trying to remove small trees to redesign your space, or needing help with a tree that leans slightly, we’ll make sure it’s done properly.
If you want to remove the tree and not just part of it, if you want to avoid leaving the stump behind, and if you want a clear, tidy finish, speak to our team.
There are many ways to remove a tree, but there’s only one way that ensures safety, legal compliance and a clean result — and that’s hiring a professional.
Contact GGM Landscaping today for a no-obligation quote and let us take care of everything, from the first cut to the final sweep.