Question 1

How often should trees be pruned?

Accepted Answer

Most mature trees benefit from pruning every 3–5 years. Young trees may need structural pruning every 1–2 years to establish a strong form. Fast-growing species or trees near structures may require more frequent attention. Arundel Tree Service follows ANSI A300 standards on every pruning job.

Question 2

What is the best time of year to prune trees in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Late winter (February–March) is ideal for most trees — the tree is dormant, wounds close quickly once growth resumes, and pests are inactive. Oaks should be pruned only in winter to reduce oak wilt risk. Dead or hazardous limbs can be removed any time of year.

Question 3

What is crown cleaning and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Crown cleaning removes dead, dying, diseased, and crossing branches from the upper canopy. It improves airflow, reduces disease pressure, eliminates falling hazards, and lets light reach the interior of the tree — all without removing healthy live wood.

Question 4

How do I know if a tree needs to be removed?

Accepted Answer

Key signs include a trunk that is more than 50% hollow or decayed, large dead branches throughout the crown, significant lean toward a structure, fungal growth at the base, or a tree that has died from disease or storm damage. A Maryland Licensed Tree Expert can assess the risk and recommend the safest course of action.

Question 5

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Permit requirements vary by county and municipality. Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, and Howard County each have their own forest conservation and tree removal ordinances. Arundel Tree Service can advise you on local permit requirements before any removal work begins.

Question 6

Is cleanup included with tree removal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every tree removal by Arundel Tree Service includes full cleanup — all branches, wood, and debris are removed from your property. We leave the site clean and ready for your next landscaping step.

Question 7

Do you offer 24/7 emergency tree service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Arundel Tree Service provides 24-hour emergency response for storm damage, fallen trees, and hazardous limbs threatening structures. Call (410) 439-1900 any time for emergency assistance across Maryland and Delaware.

Question 8

What should I do after a storm damages a tree on my property?

Accepted Answer

Stay clear of any downed or leaning trees — they can shift unexpectedly. If a tree or limb has fallen on your home, car, or utility line, call us immediately at (410) 439-1900. Do not attempt to move large debris yourself. Document the damage with photos for your insurance claim before any work begins.

Question 9

How deep does stump grinding go?

Accepted Answer

Our stump grinders typically remove stumps 6–12 inches below grade, which is sufficient to eliminate tripping hazards, prevent regrowth, and allow for lawn restoration or replanting. Deeper grinding is available if you plan to pour concrete or install hardscaping over the area.

Question 10

Will the stump grow back after grinding?

Accepted Answer

Grinding below the root collar prevents regrowth in most species. Some fast-growing trees like Bradford Pear or Ailanthus may send up sprouts from remaining lateral roots. If regrowth is a concern, we can treat the area with a stump killer application at the time of grinding.

Question 11

What happens to the wood chips after stump grinding?

Accepted Answer

The grinding process produces wood chips that can be used as mulch around your landscape beds, or we can haul them away as part of our cleanup service. Just let us know your preference when you schedule the job.

Question 12

When is a crane necessary for tree removal?

Accepted Answer

A crane is used when a tree is too large, too close to a structure, or in a location where conventional rigging and lowering would be unsafe or impossible. The crane lifts large sections of the tree directly over obstacles — roofs, fences, pools — and sets them down safely in an open area. It is the safest method for high-risk removals.

Question 13

Does crane tree removal cause damage to my yard?

Accepted Answer

Crane removal is actually one of the least disruptive methods for your landscape. Because large sections are lifted out rather than dragged through the yard, there is minimal ground disturbance. We use ground protection mats when needed to protect lawns and driveways.

Question 14

What is a bucket truck used for in tree service?

Accepted Answer

A bucket truck (aerial lift) provides a stable elevated platform for our arborists to prune, remove, or inspect tall trees safely. It is ideal for large shade trees along streets and driveways, high canopy pruning, and storm cleanup where climbing alone would be inefficient or unsafe.

Question 15

Can a bucket truck access my backyard?

Accepted Answer

Bucket trucks require a clear, firm access path — typically at least 8–10 feet wide and capable of supporting the vehicle weight. For tight or soft-ground situations, our spider lift is often a better option. We assess access during the free estimate so the right equipment is on-site from the start.

Question 16

What is a spider lift and when is it used?

Accepted Answer

A spider lift is a compact tracked aerial platform that can fit through a standard gate opening (as narrow as 36 inches), travel across soft or uneven terrain, and reach heights up to 60+ feet. It is ideal for backyard trees, hillside properties, and sensitive landscape areas where a bucket truck cannot safely operate.

Question 17

Will the spider lift damage my lawn?

Accepted Answer

The spider lift's rubber tracks distribute weight evenly and leave minimal ground disturbance compared to wheeled equipment. On soft or wet ground we use ground protection boards to further reduce any impact. Most lawns show little to no lasting marks after a spider lift job.

Question 18

What does a tree health assessment include?

Accepted Answer

A tree health assessment by one of our Maryland Licensed Tree Experts covers visual inspection of the crown, trunk, and root zone; identification of disease, pest, or fungal issues; evaluation of structural integrity and failure risk; and a written or verbal recommendation for treatment, pruning, or removal as appropriate.

Question 19

How do I know if my tree is diseased or just stressed?

Accepted Answer

Common disease signs include cankers, unusual bark discoloration, fungal conks at the base, wilting or discolored leaves out of season, and premature leaf drop. Stress signs — drought, compaction, construction damage — often look similar. A licensed tree expert can distinguish between the two and recommend the right course of action.

Question 20

Do you haul logs to mills in Maryland and Delaware?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Arundel Tree Service provides log hauling and mill transport services throughout Maryland and Delaware. Whether it is a single load from a residential removal or a larger commercial timber operation, we move logs safely and efficiently from the job site to the mill.

Our Tree Care Services

Tree Pruning

Tree Removal

Emergency Tree Service

Stump Grinding

Log Hauling / Mill Transport

Bucket Truck Service

Spider Lift Service

Crane Service

Tree Health Assessments

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