AFFORDABLE TREE REMOVAL SERVICE IN Guilford, CT

What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Guilford?

There are several non-native invasive insect species affecting Connecticut’s trees. It’s important to be aware of these insects and the problems they cause to prevent their spread and protect as many trees as possible. One of the most commonly found invasive insect species is the emerald ash borer. This insect was first seen in Connecticut in 2012 and has been spreading rapidly since then. The emerald ash borer is a small green beetle that feeds almost exclusively on ash trees.

Typically, one of the first signs of an infestation is the crown of a tree dying, and if you look at the bark you will notice D-shaped exit holes that the beetle uses to bore into the tree. The emerald ash borer lays eggs on the bark of ash trees and when they hatch, the larva eats the insides of the tree, destroying its nutrient distribution system and, ultimately, killing it. If you suspect an infestation of this insect, you should have an expert come take a look at your ash trees right away as early action is the best way to prevent its spread. 

Another non-native insect species to be aware of in Guilford is the Asian longhorned beetle. This pest has been spreading throughout the New England area in recent years, devastating local tree populations. An infestation can go undetected for the first several years, which makes it difficult to control. Asian longhorned beetles lay their eggs in craters they eat in a tree’s bark. After the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow deep into the tree, eating tunnels that disrupt the tree’s ability to spread nutrients throughout its branches, which eventually kills it. This insect infests 11 species of trees primarily including birch, elm, willow, maple, poplar, and more. Be on the lookout for large circular exit holes along the bark of a tree, as well as frothing sap and dying tree branches. 

According to Guilford municipal code subsection 252-8, trees that have become infected with an infectious disease or pest are seen as nuisance trees, even when located on private property, as they pose a threat to surrounding plant life. In these circumstances, the property owner must have these trees removed. If the property owner does not remove the diseased trees within 30 days, the town tree warden can arrange for their removal and charge the property with the costs of doing so. 

Does Guilford Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?

If trees grow on private property that runs next to city streets or other public areas, a permit is required before they can be removed. However, if there is an emergency situation where a tree poses a threat to public safety, the town First Selectman can suspend this requirement. In non-emergency situations, citizens must apply for a removal permit from the town tree warden. The Tree Advisory Board is responsible for organizing the maintenance and removal of all trees located in the public right-of-way. 

Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal in Guilford?

There are lots of areas where a tree can fall and, depending on the scenario, determining who is responsible for its removal can be difficult. According to the municipal codes for Guilford, trimming a part of a tree that grows along public property requires a permit, and if a city-owned tree falls, the Town of Guilford will arrange for its removal. Let’s take a look at who is responsible for fallen tree removal in some other circumstances. 

If you’re a homeowner?

As the property owner, homeowners must arrange and pay for the removal of trees that fall on their property. If the trunk of a tree was growing on your property, regardless of where it falls, you must be the one who arranges for its removal. One thing to note is that some homeowner’s insurance policies cover the cost of tree removal in certain circumstances, such as if the tree was damaged in a storm or natural disaster. If you need a tree removed, it’s worth checking your insurance policy to see what’s covered. If you have a lot of large, older trees on your property that would be expensive to remove if they fell, you should consider adding tree removal coverage to your policy, if possible. 

If you’re a renter?

Renters are not responsible for removing fallen trees located on the property they are renting. The landlord is responsible for this and cannot pass any of the costs onto their tenants. However, it’s worth noting that it is a crime to cause damage to trees, and if you are responsible for breaking off branches or causing other serious harm to a tree, you can be held legally responsible. 

If you’re a landlord?

As the property owner, landlords are responsible for the costs of fallen tree removal as well as regular trimming and maintenance of the trees located on their property. As we discussed earlier regarding homeowners, it’s always a good idea to check your insurance policy and see if removal costs are covered under your policy.

If you’re a neighbor?

Neighbors are allowed to trim branches that hang over fence lines into their property, as long as doing so doesn’t negatively impact the health of the tree. It’s always a polite courtesy to inform your neighbor you will be trimming these trees in advance. If a tree falls onto your property, the person who owns the land where the trunk of the tree was growing is responsible for arranging its removal. 

How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Guilford?

Soil type can vary greatly throughout a region and has a significant effect on which types of trees will be able to thrive in an area. In Guilford, the majority of the soil is fine sandy loam. Loam-rich soil contains a high concentration of nutrients that trees and shrubs need to thrive, as well as clay and sand particles. Guilford soils contain a relatively high portion of sand, which allows them to be well-draining.

This is great for the delicate root systems of young saplings and ensures water is able to filter down throughout all areas of the root system. Many hardwood trees thrive in sandy loam soil, including ash, cottonwood, oak, poplar, maple, and many types of fruit trees, such as cherry. 

Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Guilford?

Connecticut, in general, has a temperate climate, with warm summers and mild winters that experience snowfall. Occasionally, this area experiences both droughts and flooding as a result of seasonal storms. Guilford experiences an average yearly temperature of 56°F and is prone to thunderstorms in the early summer. The high winds experienced during these times can cause damage to trees, especially ones that have been weakened by a disease or pest. In the early spring, snowmelt can cause flooding that can also damage trees.

What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Guilford?

It is important to never attempt to trim or remove a tree located within 10 feet of a power line. Always call your local utility company and they will deal with these issues. Connecticut Light & Power is a utility company that provides service to Guilford residents. They regularly trim and remove trees that are in contact with power lines and remove the branches they cut down after their work is finished. If they need to remove an entire tree, they will leave the stump behind for the property owner to have removed if they choose.

How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Guilford?

Tree removal costs can vary greatly based on many factors, including in which part of the country you’re located. In Guilford, residents can expect to pay anywhere from $221 to $1,437, with $1,294 being the average cost. Many issues cause this range in cost. Let’s take a look at the most significant factors that determine tree removal costs in Guilford. 

Tree Size

It might not come as a surprise, but generally speaking, the larger the tree, the more you can expect to pay to have it removed. Larger trees can have more complex branch patterns and be more difficult to cut through, causing the removal process to be more time-consuming. It’s also important to pay attention to the trunk diameter. Larger trunks are significantly more costly to remove than narrow ones. 

Tree Location

Ideally, a tree that needs to be removed would be located in a large open area that’s easy for equipment to access and doesn’t pose a threat to any surrounding buildings. However, the reality is that this situation almost never occurs. It’s very common for Guilford residents to have trees growing near houses, property lines, or public right-of-way areas, and these situations need to be dealt with carefully so as not to cause property damage. 

Urgency

If you can schedule removal several weeks in advance or don’t have a problem waiting for an appointment time to open up, you can expect to pay less than if you’re dealing with an emergency situation. If a tree has fallen on your home or across your driveway due to a storm, you need to get an expert out there fast, which will increase the price.