Question 1

Is my tree dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Probably not. The three things worth ringing about are a new lean with lifted soil, a vertical crack at a stem union, and bracket fungus at the base. Everything else on our checklist is either worth a look at some point or entirely normal — moss, sap, and surface roots between them account for most of the calls we get.

Question 2

Do I need a permit to remove it?

Accepted Answer

In Portland, often yes, and it depends on the size, the species, and whether it is a street tree. That is a question for the city rather than for us, and any company telling you not to worry about it is one to avoid. We will tell you what we think applies and then send you to check.

Question 3

What is the difference between thinning and topping?

Accepted Answer

Thinning removes selected branches back to a growth point and keeps the tree's shape and structure. Topping cuts everything to a height, which produces weak regrowth from the cut ends and leaves you with a more dangerous tree in five years. We do not do it, and this is the only place on this site the word appears.

Question 4

What does cabling do?

Accepted Answer

It supports a weak union between two stems so that one does not split off in wind. It is not a repair and it does not make a failing tree safe — it buys a sound tree with one weak point a lot of years. It needs inspecting every three years and that is included.

Question 5

When is the right time of year?

Accepted Answer

Most structural pruning is best in the dormant season, roughly November to February, when the structure is visible and the tree is not spending energy. Deadwood can come out any time. Oaks are best not pruned in spring in this region, and we will move a job rather than take it at the wrong time.

Question 6

Who is liable for a shared tree?

Accepted Answer

It depends on where the trunk sits and what the survey says, and it is a legal question rather than an arboricultural one. What we can do is provide a written assessment both households can look at, which resolves most of these without anybody needing a lawyer.

Six, and two of them send you somewhere other than us.