Are you looking for information on how to drop a Southern Maryland tree that is hung up? Read this detailed guide to learn how to get it done properly.
If you fell one tree into another, it’s important to know what to do next. Trapped trees can be dangerous, and you need to think through the situation calmly.
In this situation, it’s always best to trust the next steps to a professional tree services company that can take care of the work for you. These experts know how to drop a tree safely and effectively.
Let’s take a look at how the process works.
1. Gather the Right Tools
The following tools are required for this job:
Turning hook
Turning strap
Winch
A forwarder or tractor with a grapple loader (or winch)
2. Follow Safety Precautions
There are a few safety rules to follow if you need to remove a tree that’s trapped. These include:
Use highly visible marking tape to mark the tree
Never fell another tree on a tree that’s already trapped
Don’t work around the perimeter of hanging, trapped trees
Never cut down the tree that’s been felled on
3. Slightly Leaning: Use the Roll Method
If the tree is just slightly leaning onto the other, you may be able to use the Roll Method to remove it.
Step 1: Assess the Tree
First, assess the condition of the tree. Decide which way you think it can be rolled down.
Step 2: Position the Hinge
Saw off the middle of the hinge to preserve the two corners. Then, begin to cut off the corner that’s opposite of the side you intend to roll the tree down, leaving the other corner intact. Using your saw, cut the corner diagonally from above, repeating multiple times.
Step 3: Roll the Tree Down
Once that corner is off, you can use your turning hook or strap to roll the tree away from you. If the tree winds up being heavier or more stuck than you thought, supplement your turning hook or strap with a longer piece from a thin tree nearby.
4. Severely Leaning: Use the Step Down Method
If one tree is severely leaning into another, it’s best to use the Step Down Method. These trees can be difficult to roll down, so you’ll need to lever them or pull them backward.
Step 1: Make a Slider Bed
First, prepare the ground in front of the trunk. Create a surface/slider bed by adding branches and poles in front of the tree.
Step 2: Cut the Backside
Next, find the rear of the trunk. Cut into it until you’re about halfway through the diameter. Is the guide bar shorter than the tree diameter? If so, continue to cut from the other side.
Step 3: Insert a Wedge
Add a wedge into the backside cut. This prevents it from pinching.
Step 4: Cut the Front
Next, make a cut on the front side. The cut should be parallel to the backside cut, about three to five centimeters below it. Keep cutting until you’ve reached about halfway through the diameter.
Step 5: Knock the Wedge
Then, knock the backside wedge until it meets the front cut. This should split the wood fibers and cause the trunk to slide off the stump. It should slide backward and onto your sliding surface.
If the wedge didn’t do the trick, you may need to lever the tree with a long rod. Follow the direction of movement until it releases and slides down.
How to Drop a Tree Safely
While these processes show you how to drop a tree, we recommend always calling a tree cutting company. These teams are skilled in safe tree removal and can get the job done quickly and securely.
Need help removing or trimming a tree on your property? Contact us today.