Palm trees can be used for various reasons, including roofing, source of fuel, raw material for making baskets, mulching material, and other reasons.
As much as this tree is helpful, it can also take up necessary space, especially if the tree is not being used.
This article contains a detailed guide on how to get rid of an unwanted palm tree and an elaborate list of all the things a palm tree can be used for.
How Do I Get Rid Of An Unwanted Palm Tree?
The best option for getting rid of a palm tree is to dig up the tree or cut it down. To chop down a palm tree, follow the detailed steps below.
Step 1:
The first thing to do is check if it is legal to cut down a tree in your region. Some regions make it legal to cut down a tree while others do not, so you need to identify the type of palm tree in your yard and find out about the permit needed.
With over 2500 species of this tree, it comes in different forms. Some have fruits, others have seeds, some are tall, and others are short.
Cutting down a palm tree is straightforward, and the only challenge you may have will be obtaining a permit. A permit is needed to determine if the removal will affect any nearby property.
There are some important factors to consider before cutting down a tree; these factors determine whether or not you need a permit.
1. Extension
Some homeowners may have a palm tree close to their fence, extending past their property to their neighbor’s property. Because of this extension, you may need to get a permit and discuss ways to remove the palm tree with your neighbors safely.
2. Height of tree
A specific height of a tree is deemed safe enough to be cut down by a homeowner. If a palm tree exceeds this given height, then a permit will be needed to show one skill in cutting a tree at this height without the help of a professional. You will need to contact an expert if the height of the tree surpasses 12 feet.
3. Closeness to a source of power
Things can be disastrous when a tree falls in the wrong place. If your tree stands close to an electric pole or a telephone booth, you need a permit to confirm that you are skilled enough for tree removal. This process ensures that people are not injured, and no property is damaged.
4. Digging up the tree
You need to ask yourself if digging up this tree and relocating it to another position will be better than cutting it. Trees are vital to the environment and should not be cut down, especially when there is an alternate solution.
If there is an extra space in your yard, you can relocate it to that position, and if your yard is small and in need of space, you can sell the palm tree.
5. Protected species
If the palm tree in your yard is under special protection for species about to go extinct, then cutting this tree is slim. A permit may be issued to dig up and relocate the tree, but cutting might not be permitted.
Step 2:
If your palm tree is at a safe length for cutting, start by removing the palm fronds, this will help reduce the tree’s weight and the amount of work.
When doing this, be cautious as some palm fronds have spikes; the best way to go about this is to wear protective clothing like gloves and a long-sleeved t-shirt. Also, look out for scorpions or rats that live inside these fronds.
You can use them for roofing after taking out the palm fronds as it does not decompose easily.
Step 3:
This stage requires you to select an area in the tree to cut. This selected area is dependent on where your tree should fall.
If the tree leans more to one side, it should fall in that direction, provided that the path is free and there is no obstacle in the way.
Clear all the area around the tree before cutting to make steeping away from it easier after cutting it.
Step 4:
Use a chainsaw to make a mark on the side of the tree you wish to start cutting from; make another mark above the first cut in a way that intersects to form a wedge that can be removed. On the tree’s opposite side, create a horizontal cut that meets the first, then allow the tree to fall freely.
Another alternative is to cut the tree into smaller sections if there is no space for the tree to fall.
Step 5:
The final step in this process is to remove the tree stump. one of the features of a palm tree is that its root doesn’t grow deep, making it easier to dig out instead of using other alternate methods. Digging out the stump will make regeneration of fibrous roots impossible.
Uses of palm trees
There is a long list of all the things a palm tree can be used for. If you have successfully cut down your palm tree and want to throw it away, here are some uses of palm trees that may be beneficial to you.
1. Can be used as extracts for soap, oils, beverages, and syrups.
2. Palm fronds can be used as roofing and building materials
3. Source of wood.
4. Can be used in the production of woven baskets.
5. Source of food as some produce fruits
Conclusion
A palm tree in your yard can create a nice opportunity for shade or add more beauty to your peaceful space. But when you need some extra space, you decide to let your palm tree go. Cutting down a palm tree is easy, but you will require a permit for various reasons.
We have explained some of the reasons you may need a permit and alternatives to cutting a palm tree. We have covered some of the important uses of a palm tree after cutting that may be vital to you.
Helpful Articles:
- How To Kill A Tree Stump Fast
- Why Do Weeds Die in the Winter
- How To Cut Grass Without a Lawnmower
- How to Get Rid of a Tree Stump With Charcoal
We trust this article helped you learn how to get rid of an unwanted palm tree. You may also want to check out The Easiest Way to Cut Tall Grass.
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