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One of the important dividing lines in our line of work as Hudson Valley tree removal experts is the DIY route vs. professional route for homeowners and business owners. There are scenarios where it’s possible to “do it yourself,” and there are other factors related to skill, safety, equipment, risks and complexity where you should absolutely hire a professional. In this blog post, we’re going to go over some of those factors.

Legality

Before you remove or significantly alter a tree on your property, check your local town or village laws. Many Hudson Valley and Catskills towns regulate tree removal near roadways, even if it’s on your private property, since trees are considered important for public welfare, aesthetics, and safety.

Key considerations include:

• Private Property Restrictions: In some areas, even trees on private property (e.g., shade trees or trees near public streets) are subject to regulation and may require permits for removal.
• Dead or Dangerous Trees: Some towns allow immediate removal of dead, diseased, or hazardous trees without a permit, though documentation might still be necessary.
• Permit Applications: Where permits are required, you’ll often need to file an application with the town or village, sometimes including a fee and approval from a specific commission or board.
• Financial Responsibility: Homeowners are often responsible for maintenance or removal costs for regulated trees on or near their property.

To avoid fines or disputes, contact your local government or planning department to confirm specific requirements for your area. Or, to avoid having to do any of that, contact us to schedule a consultation about your tree; we can help you navigate how to legally and safely remove your tree.

Tree Size

Whether you can cut your own tree down or should hire a professional depends on a variety of factors related to safety, skill, equipment, and the complexity of the job. The size of the tree is one of those factors; if it’s on the smaller side, under 15 feet tall, and the trunk diameter is manageable with a handsaw or small handheld chainsaw, under 6-8 inches, then you may be able to cut it yourself.

Tree Location

After considering the size of your tree, you should check: is your tree is far from power lines, structures like homes, sheds, and gardens, and other hazards? Is there ample space for the tree to fall without damage?

Tools, Equipment and Experience

Do you have tools like an axe, saw, chainsaw, and understand how to use them for basic tree-cutting techniques like felling cuts? Can you assess risks like dead limbs and hidden rot? Do you have safety gear like gloves, helmets, goggles and sturdy boots? Then you may be able to cut down a small tree in an ideal location.

When You Should Hire a Professional

If your tree is larger than 15 feet, or has a large heavy trunk, an extensive root system, or is leaning heavily, then you should not attempt to do anything with it without a licensed professional tree company, which will have the professional-grade equipment like cranes, ropes and harnesses to safely handle the job. If the tree is near a home, power lines, roads, or other structures, then you definitely need professional assistance to avoid damage and liability. If the tree is diseased or rotting, or has dead limbs, then for your own safety, you should not attempt to manage the tree yourself.

Finally, a licensed tree removal company will be able to arrange the post-removal work like stump removal, wood disposal and site cleanup to make sure your property is ready for the next thing after the tree.

When in doubt, consult with a licensed, professional tree removal company for an assessment—we can help you decide whether the tree can be tackled on your own or if it’s better left to the pros.

In this blog post, we are presenting the testimonial and before/after pictures of a tree removal in Kingston, NY, with a homeowner who had a beloved but dying ash tree on his property that needed to be taken care of. It’s old news in the Hudson Valley that the spread of the invasive ash borer has made it all but impossible for ash trees to survive.

According to the Ecological Research Institute, the local fatality rates for ash trees as of 2022 ranged from:

Big Indian: 37%	Boiceville: 95%	Highland: 98%	Kingston: 95%
Margaretville: 43%	Malden: 97%	Millbrook: 98%	Millerton: 10%
Milton: 54%	New Paltz: 77%	Poughkeepsie: 78%	Red Hook: 64%
Rhinebeck: 89%	Saugerties: 83%	Shokan: 98%	Staatsburg: 83%
Stone Ridge: 100%	Tivoli: 37%	West Hurley: 100%	West Saugerties: 100%

Assessing the Tree

There are interventions that can be done to extend the lives of trees that are declining. This ash tree had been trimmed in years past, but it was clear that it was rotting on the inside.

The homeowner made arrangements with us and we had very clear communication about the size and cost of the job, when we’d be there, how long we anticipated it would take, and the steps we’d take to protect his property and clean up after the job.

In the late morning, the job began as we started to cut down the lower branches of the tree:

We took every precaution to have a small footprint on the surrounding neighborhood while ensuring safety:

About an hour into the job, most of the lower branches had been removed:

Using time-tested cabling methods, we were able to ensure that after cutting of the top half of the tree, at least 100 feet up, the result hung harmlessly in the air rather than dropping to the ground or hitting the customer’s house.

With the top half of the tree gone, we then got to work on the thicker bottom half. In this video you can see our crew continuously cleaning the surrounding area.

Eventually, the trunk came down, and it was clear that the tree was rotting from the inside and didn’t have much time left:

The customer, based in Kingston, wrote afterwards: “It gives us such peace of mind knowing that the tree was safely taken down and is no longer looming over our house during every wind or snowstorm. Expert Tree Service lived up their name and did a great job taking down the tree and cleaning up after.”

Zombies are everywhere. Whether in pop culture with shows like the Walking Dead or movies like 28 Years Later, or with turns of phrase like “zombie homes,” “zombie companies,” “zombie cities,” and more, or beloved local events in our region like the Ulster Corps’ Annual Zombie Run; we’ve got zombies on the mind. And today, we’re going to cover a concept that has been around for a long time in our world of tree trimming and removal services: Zombie Trees.

What is a Zombie Tree?

The “zombie” metaphor is used to describe something that is essentially lifeless but continues to act and move. It can refer to trees that are still standing but are already dying or dead due to disease, pests or environmental stress. When a tree reaches a “zombie” stage, it’s beyond saving. They can be especially dangerous because they have a healthy outer appearance, so passersby or property owners might not realize the risk of falling limbs until it’s too late.

What Causes Zombie Trees?

Some of the top causes include:

• Diseases and fungal infections – Check out our guide on how to look out for diseases like dutch elm and oak wilt, which can weaken trees from inside.
• Pests and invasive species – While gypsy moths got the headlines in 2024, pests like pine beetles, emerald ash borer, the woody agelgid, elongate hemlock scale and more have posed long-term threats to our forests and trees.
• Extreme weather events – Since 2000, there has been a slight uptick in extreme weather events like high winds, hail, heavy snow, lightning and more in the Mid-Hudson Valley counties of Dutchess, Orange and Ulster. These can cause internal structural damage to trees.
• Root damage – Impacts like construction, root rot or soil compaction can prevent the tree from absorbing water and nutrients
• Old age – Over time, trees naturally weaken

Zombie Tree Signs

Signs of zombie trees include cracks or cavities in the trunk, dead or brittle branches, fungus or mushrooms growing on the bark or near the base of the tree, a leaning or unstable appearance, a lack of new growth, and sparse leaf cover, especially at the crown.

What to Do About Your Zombie Tree

Do you suspect that you have a zombie tree? The best thing to do is to give us a call at (845) 331-6782. We’ll conduct a professional assessment of whether your tree can be saved through trimming and other techniques, or needs to be cut down.

In our home of New York State, businesses have a duty to trim, maintain or remove aging and dying trees on their property under the principles of premises liability and under various local laws. Although there isn’t a unifying statute passed on a statewide level specifically about tree maintenance and businesses, there are several legal principles and regulations that may apply.

1. Premises Liability

In New York State, commercial property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition. This includes the responsibility to inspect for hazardous conditions, which include dead or dying trees or branches, and to take care of those hazards if they seem like they could pose a risk to any customers, workers or people passing by.

2. Local Laws and Ordinances

Many municipalities in the mid-Hudson Valley have specific laws governing tree maintenance. These laws, to varying degrees, require all property owners (including businesses) to remove dead or diseased trees, and property trim or maintain overhanging branches that are near sidewalks, streets and neighboring properties.

The laws may also address issues such as obstruction of public pathways, trees that encroach on utility lines, and specific requirements for historic districts or environmentally sensitive areas.

For example, in the City of Kingston, there is an ordinance that says: “It shall be the duty of any person or person owning real property abutting on any street upon which property there are trees or shrubs to trim or remove such trees so that they will not obscure or interfere with the view of motorists entering any intersection of the city, obstruct the passage of pedestrians on sidewalks or obstruct the street lights or traffic signs.”

In Saugerties, “Property owners also would have to remove dead, damaged or diseased trees or shrubs that present an imminent hazard, and maintain their parcels in a way that prevents soil erosion and sedimentation.”

In Ellenville, “It shall be the duty of every owner of real property in the Village to keep the shade trees in front of his premises trimmed so that overhanging limbs will not interfere with passersby on the sidewalks or roadway. All overhanging limbs shall be at least nine feet above the center of the sidewalk, and 15 feet above the center of the roadway. All dead and dangerous trees or limbs must be removed.”

In New Paltz, “Every owner of any tree overhanging any street or right-of-way within the Village or public utility company shall prune the branches so that such branches shall not obstruct the view of any street intersection nor obstruct the light from any streetlight and so that there shall be a clear space of eight feet above the surface of the street or sidewalk. The owner shall remove all dead, diseased or dangerous trees or broken or decayed limbs which constitute a menace to the safety of the public…”

3. Neighboring Property Rights

Under New York State common law, a commercial property owner may be held liable if their trees cause damage to a neighbor’s property, such as from a falling branch or the encroachment of roots. By proactively maintaining your tree with trimming services, you can prevent disputes and potential lawsuits.

4. Storm Damage Preparedness

If a tree is documented or known to be in bad or dying condition, and poses a foreseeable risk during storms or adverse weather conditions, a commercial business may have a duty to address the issue in advance.

5. Specific Industry Regulations

If a commercial business has additional safety regulations, such as for a daycare, a nursing home, or a performance venue, there may be additional requirements for tree maintenance to ensure the safety of its clients and patrons.

6. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)

The DEC regulates some aspects of tree care of removal if the property contains protected tree species or trees that are within regulated wetlands or environmental conservation areas. Permits may be required to remove trees in these cases.

For homeowners, the decision to remove a tree is sometimes easy, and sometimes hard. If a tree poses an immediate risk to your family, neighbors, or property, and you’re responding to storm damage or clear signs of disease and decay, it may be an easy decision. If you’re making an aesthetic change, or not sure if the tree will recover from disease or other signs of distress, the decision may not be so easy.

Consulting with the right tree service company near you can be essential to making an informed decision. If you decide to remove the tree, you must ensure the tree company will do the job done safely, efficiently, and at a fair price.

This guide covers everything that Hudson Valley homeowners need to know about when selecting the best tree removal company, helping you make an informed decision to protect your property and investment.

1. Identify Your Tree Removal Needs

Before reaching out to a tree removal company, you should spell out what your exact needs are going to be:

• What kind of service? Tree services can surprisingly vary. Some companies you see online may specialize in emergency removal, stump grinding, or tree trimming, while others offer a full suite of tree and arbor services.
• How big is the tree? Where is it located? Large or hard-to-reach trees may require specialized equipment, affecting the cost and company selection.
• How urgent is the removal? If the tree poses an immediate risk to safety, look for companies offering 24/7 emergency services.

By defining your needs, you can better communicate your requirements to potential service providers.

2. Research Your Local Tree Removal Companies

After spelling out your needs, create a list of local tree removal companies. Here’s how to start:

• Read Online Reviews: Platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, and social media like Facebook will offer insights from previous customers.
• Seek Recommendations: Ask neighbors or friends who have used tree services recently.
• Look for Experience: Find companies with a proven track record and familiarity with regional tree species and regulations, as this local expertise can be invaluable.

3. Verify Certification and Insurance

Insurance is essential for a reputable tree removal company. A legitimate company should have liability and worker’s compensation insurance to cover any accidents that may occur. Ask for proof of insurance and ensure the certificate is current to avoid liability for damages or injuries.

In the mid-Hudson Valley region, there is a long history of fake “tree doctors” going back to 1915. As the Daily Freeman reported:

“These complaints have come from all sections of the state and are the result of careless and unsatisfactory work upon shade trees in private grounds, streets and parks… overrun by these quack tree doctors who make the wildest promises as to the curing of chestnut blight and other tree troubles.”

Read More: “The History of Kingston’s First Licensed Tree Removal Company“

4. Request Detailed Quotes and Compare Costs

Cost is a major factor, but it’s also important to know what you’re paying for. Here’s how to get clear and comprehensive quotes. Beware of too-good-to-be-true prices. Extremely low prices may indicate a lack of experience, insurance, or quality equipment. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best choice; prioritize quality and safety alongside cost.

5. Evaluate Equipment and Safety Standards

Tree removal requires specialized equipment to handle different sizes and locations safely. Ask each company about their equipment and safety measures:

• Equipment Quality: Professional-grade equipment like bucket trucks, cranes, or wood chippers indicates that a company can handle complex jobs.
• Safety Protocols: Tree removal is inherently dangerous, so it’s essential that the company follows strict safety guidelines. Look for companies that prioritize safety gear and OSHA-compliant practices.

Proper equipment and safety protocols protect both your property and the workers on-site.

6. Understand Additional Services Offered

Many tree removal companies offer more than just tree removal. Depending on your needs, these additional services can add convenience and value:

• Stump Removal: Some companies include stump grinding in their quotes, while others charge separately.
• Debris Cleanup: Make sure debris removal is part of the contract to avoid extra cleanup costs.
• Site Cleanup and Landscaping Options: Some companies offer site restoration services after tree removal, which can be beneficial if you plan to replant or landscape the area.

Clarify what’s included in your service package to avoid unexpected charges.

7. Check References and Reputation

A company’s reputation speaks volumes about its reliability and service quality. Take time to verify their standing by asking for references: a reputable company should be able to provide references from recent clients. Contact these references to learn about their experience with the service, especially regarding professionalism, punctuality, and cleanup.

8. Avoid Scams and High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Unfortunately, the tree service industry has its share of scams. Protect yourself by knowing the red flags:

• Avoid Door-to-Door Contractors: Door-to-door offers are often a sign of an unlicensed or uninsured business.
• Watch for High-Pressure Sales: Reputable companies will allow you time to make a decision without pushing for immediate payment.

By staying vigilant, you can avoid scams and ensure you’re working with a legitimate service provider.

9. Ask About Permits and Local Regulations

Depending on your location, you may need a permit to remove certain trees. A good tree removal company will be familiar with local laws and can guide you through the process:

• Verify Permit Requirements: Check with your city or county government to understand the regulations around tree removal.
• Consult Your HOA (if applicable): Homeowner Associations (HOAs) often have their own rules about tree removal, so consult your HOA before proceeding.

Working with a company that understands these regulations can help prevent delays and fines. We recently published a comprehensive guide to all of the published tree laws in the Hudson Valley, covering Catskill, Ellenvile, Hyde Park, Kingston, New Paltz, Poughkeepsie, Red Hook, Rhinebeck and Saugerties.

FAQs About Tree Removal

How much does tree removal cost?

Tree removal costs vary based on tree size, location, and complexity.

Is tree removal covered by homeowners insurance?

In certain cases, homeowners insurance may cover tree removal if the tree poses a danger or falls due to storm damage. Check your policy for details.

How long does tree removal take?

Removal time depends on tree size and complexity. Simple jobs may take a few hours, while large or intricate removals could require a full day or more.

What happens to the tree debris after removal?

We offer debris removal.

Can I remove a tree myself?

DIY tree removal is highly discouraged, as it can be dangerous and often requires specialized equipment. Professionals have the experience, safety training, and insurance to manage the job safely.

Property owners often have a vision of tree removal and trimming that involves a hot day in the summer where a dying tree is removed under the blazing sun. But it is arguable that the best time for removing a tree, especially in the Hudson Valley, is in the winter.

There are a number of reasons for that:

• If you have a surrounding garden, there is zero chance that branches will fall on active, adjacent plants
• Accessing the tree with equipment is easier without blooming plants nearby
• There is less soil impact if the ground is dry and/or frozen when the work is done
• You will have more time to relocate adjacent, dormant plants that may be exposed to too much sun after the tree is removed
• If the tree is being trimmed, and not removed, there is better visibility to see signs of rot and decay
• By removing a tree in the early winter, you’ll get out in front of any potential snowstorms

There are many considerations for evaluating the best plan for the trees on your property. If you live in the Hudson Valley, including the Kingston and Ulster County area, Poughkeepsie and Dutchess County, Catskill and Greene County, or Columbia County, give us a call at 845-331-6782 today to discuss your needs.

The Town of Rosendale is located about half an hour south of our headquarters on Route 9W in Saugerties. While it’s a small town by population, it’s very big in terms of how much the residents love and care for their trees. According to a Natural Resources Inventory conducted by the town, it is home to close to a dozen unique forests, woodlands, thickets and swamps, all with different characteristics, soil and topography.

In this blog post, we’re going to go over some of Rosendale, NY’s most common trees, and some of the recommended maintenance best practices to keep them alive and well.

Sometimes, due to deferred maintenance, disease, or weather events, trees are too far gone to be saved, and it’s important to consult a professional tree removal service. Give us a call at (845) 331-6782 to schedule a free consultation.

White Pine

White pine has historically been a major building block of forests in the Northeast. However, recent timing of cool and moist weather has led to a considerable decline in Eastern White Pine. We often see needle diseases and other ailments (like caliciopsis cankers) weakening white pines. They do the best in moist, well-drained and acidic soil, and they don’t do well with salt spray near roads.

Chestnut Oak

Chestnut oak stepped up in the early 1900s to replace regular chestnut trees, which were decimated by blight caused by invasive species. Today, chestnut oaks stand tall in Rosendale, with their primary enemy being our recent spongy moth outbreaks. Chestnut oaks like to be watered, fertilized, pruned, and to have the area around their base mowed.

Beech

Rosendale’s beech tree population can be impacted by beech bark disease, as well as the newly discovered beech leaf disease. Another threat is deer, which can decimate the understories of beech trees. Beech trees grow very slowly, and they really benefit from deep, well-drained soil. They don’t do well next to sidewalks and driveways.

Pitch pine

Pitch pine is relatively uncommon in New York. Their sap was once heavily used to seal up ships, and today pitch pines often get wiped out by forest fires. Like the chestnut oak, pitch pines are also getting hit hard by spongy moth outbreaks, as well as southern pine beetles. They benefit from pruning of dead branches, fertilizing, mulching, and fire prevention.

Hemlock

It’s claimed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation that hemlocks are the fourth-most common trees in New York’s forests. They are threatened by the hemlock woolly adelgid, which block water and nutrients from getting to the buds of the trees. Insecticides work well against the wooly adelgid, and otherwise, they should be watered, fertilized and set back from the road if possible to protect from salt spray.

Red Maple

Red maples are very common in New York State. They love the full sun, and need to be watered early on. They don’t really need to be pruned or fertilized unless you really want to.

When it comes to tree removal in Kingston, NY, the more things change, the more they stay the same. We can see that when looking at a long history of news clippings regarding the subject.

On August 17, 1915, one of the first mentions of tree care in Kingston, NY was made in the Daily Freeman. A newspaper report titled “Fake Tree Doctors” decried an increase in complaints of “unsatisfactory work” and “exorbitant charges” by so-called tree doctors.

“These complaints have come from all sections of the state and are the result of careless and unsatisfactory work upon shade trees in private grounds, streets and parks… overrun by these quack tree doctors who make the wildest promises as to the curing of chestnut blight and other tree troubles.”

The first mention of “tree removal” in Kingston, NY came in the July 19, 1919 issue of the Daily Freeman. An article titled “Kingston Selected as Model for City Tree Planting Scheme” said that “State Forestry Experts Made Survey and Have Prepared Pamphlet Which, If Plans Are Followed, Will Make Kingston Pattern for the Country.”

It’s difficult to tell if that lofty promise was fulfilled. But the article does contain the first references to “tree removal” that appeared in the local newspapers, with regards to a sustainable system of tree management.

“Of these existing trees, nearly three-quarters are in a very unsatisfactory condition, as has already been discussed and probably not more than 25% of the trees can be considered of any value as permanent planting. Of the 75% inferior trees, probably one-third should be removed during the next five years and the balance in the succeeding ten to fifteen years…

Our maintenance operations will therefore begin with the total of 8,000 trees and allowing for the removal of the dead and dying specimens at about the same annual rate as our new planning will give us a practical consistent maintenance cost till all the existing, inferior trees and replaced by new planting and we begin to get an annual increase in the number of trees maintained…

The task of removing large trees from city streets with safety to the occupants of the streets is no simple one, and the cost is consequently high. The cost varies greatly with the size and kind of trees in question, the nature, width and location of the street, the time of year, the efficiency of the organization, the labor market, etc., so that any blanket estimate is of very doubtful accuracy.”

The need for efficient and safe tree removal companies in Ulster County was apparent from these two articles. That’s where Expert Tree Service came in in 1936. In 1948, the Daily Freeman covered the twelve year old company, founded by a World War 2 veteran named David Hughes, Sr.

The narrative of a family business that is licensed, safe, and an alternative to inexperienced and fly-by-night operators has remained consistent for the 88 years Expert Tree Service has been in business.

Here are some additional examples of newspaper ads taken out by Expert Tree Service over the years:

November 16, 1943

March 21, 1946

November 25, 1946

November 18, 1961

July 6, 1968

May 17, 1969

March 28, 1970

Do you need expert tree care in Kingston, NY or the surrounding area in 2024? Give us a call at 845-331-6782.

As a Hudson Valley-based tree trimming and tree removal company, we’ve seen an incredibly wide range of trees: old, young, huge, small, diseased, healthy and everything in between.

While we spend a lot of time removing trees from homeowners’ and business’ properties, we also provide services like tree trimming, cabling, feeding and more that can intervene on a tree that might be on the decline, or preventatively help a beloved tree live a longer and healthier life. There are many things that can be done during the life of a tree that can help. Give us a call at 845-331-6782 to schedule a consultation!

The trees below are from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s “Big Tree Register,” an annually updated list that showcases the largest trees in the state for every tree species. The calculation for biggest tree takes into account height, circumference and crown spread.

About 170 tree species local to New York State are counted on the list: our part of the Hudson Valley (including Dutchess County, Ulster County, Greene County and Columbia County) is the proud home to 19 of them. Here they are, organized by height, along with a tip for the top ten kinds of trees:

1. 138 Foot Dutchess County Red Hickory

To care for a red hickory tree and ensure it grows large and healthy, homeowners should start by planting it in ideal conditions. Red hickories thrive in well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, and they need full sunlight for at least six to eight hours a day. Make sure the tree has plenty of space, as it can grow up to 80 feet tall with a wide canopy. During its early years, regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist without becoming waterlogged. Once established, red hickories are drought-tolerant but still benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells.

2. 130 Foot Dutchess County Sweetgum

Sweetgum trees typically don’t require much fertilization. However, if the soil is poor or the tree shows signs of nutrient deficiency, you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring. Pruning is also important to encourage healthy growth—remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches in late winter or early spring to shape the tree and improve airflow.

3. 126 Foot Dutchess County Black Walnut

Pests and diseases that can affect black walnut trees include walnut caterpillars, aphids, and walnut anthracnose. Regularly inspect the tree for signs of infestation or disease, and use appropriate treatments if necessary. Protecting the root zone is also key—avoid soil compaction and disturbance by keeping heavy equipment or vehicles away from the tree’s base. With patience and proper care, a black walnut tree will grow into a valuable and long-lasting part of your landscape.

4. 123 Foot Columbia County White Oak

To care for a white oak tree and encourage healthy growth, it’s important to provide the right growing conditions and consistent care. White oaks (Quercus alba) thrive in well-drained, deep, and slightly acidic to neutral soil, though they can tolerate a range of soil types. Full sunlight is essential for white oak growth, so make sure your tree receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. They have a broad canopy that spreads equally wide, ensure there is ample space around the tree for its roots and branches to expand.

5. 117 Foot Dutchess County Eastern Hemlock

Watering is essential for Eastern hemlocks, especially in their early years. They prefer consistently moist soil, so regular watering during dry periods is crucial to their health. Mulching around the base of the tree with a layer of organic material like pine needles or wood chips will help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Just remember to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to avoid potential issues like rot or pests.

6. 117 Foot Dutchess County Sycamore

Sycamore trees are typically fast-growing and do not require frequent fertilization. However, if your soil is poor, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote growth. In terms of pruning, sycamores generally require minimal maintenance. Prune dead, damaged, or diseased branches in late winter or early spring to improve the tree’s structure and airflow.

7. 114 Foot Dutchess County Cucumber Magnolia

Cucumber magnolia trees are relatively pest-resistant, but like many magnolias, they can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spots or powdery mildew. Keep an eye out for any signs of disease or pest infestations, and treat them promptly with fungicides or insecticidal soap as needed.

8. 112 Foot Dutchess County Scarlet Oak

Scarlet oaks typically do not require fertilization unless they are growing in particularly poor soils. If necessary, you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. Pruning should be done during late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant, focusing on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and shape the tree.

9. 104 Foot Dutchess County Red Maple

During the first few years after planting, regular watering is crucial to help the tree establish a strong root system. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging, as red maples do not tolerate saturated soils. Once established, they are moderately drought-tolerant, although they still benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Applying a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree can help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce competition from weeds. Be sure to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

10. 96 Foot Dutchess County Shagbark Hickory

11. 81 Foot Dutchess County Honey Locust

12. 80 Foot Greene County Chestnut Oak

13. 79 Foot Dutchess County Pitch Pine

14. 63 Foot Dutchess County Orange Osage

15. 50 Foot Ulster County Smoketree

16. 45 Foot Dutchess County Pussy Willow

17. 38 Foot Dutchess County Striped Maple

18. 30 Foot Dutchess County Dogwood

19. 14 Foot Dutchess County Burningbush

When most Hudson Valley people think about trees in the fall season, it’s because our region explodes with beauty as trees turn rich shades of red, orange and brown, before the leaves fall and turn into a multi-colored tapestry below our feet. There’s an even a term for tourists who come up just for the views: leaf peepers. But when the leaves fall, it could be the perfect time to look for tree services in the Hudson Valley and Catskills.

We’ll explain why, but according to state tourism site I Love New York, at this time in late September and early October, our fall foliage is at the following levels:

Columbia County Foliage:

35% change in Hudson with average to bright shades of orange, brown, and yellow, and some pops of red.

Dutchess County Foliage:

30% in Poughkeepsie with emerging deep shades of red.
10% change in Beacon with some muted touches of yellow.

Greene County Foliage:

60-65% change in Windham, with foliage progression closer to 40% due east in Catskill.

Ulster County Foliage:

40-50% transition in Kingston with mostly yellow leaves, along with some red and orange

The Advantages of Fall Tree Removal

Autumn is an excellent time for tree removal for several reasons:

• Once the leaves leaves fall, it’s much easier to inspect your tree for signs of disease or decay.
• Without leaves in the way, it is simpler to see which branches need to be cut and where.
• The ground is not frozen, which allows tree professionals to efficiently access our tools and equipment.
• Removing trees in the fall will help prepare your property for the winter months, reducing the chances of a tree falling from a storm

Fall Preparing Makes Spring Landscaping

If you remove trees in the fall, it also gives you a head start on making a plan for the spring. Once a tree is gone, you can have a clear idea of the available space, allowing you to plan new planting projects, whether replacing the tree, adding smaller plants, or introducing new landscaping features.

Common Types of Fall Tree Trimming Services

Crown Lifting

This method removes lower branches to raise the visibility of the crown’s base, typically to clear roads or remove obstacles. However, it’s best suited for younger trees, as trimming larger branches from mature trees can result in slower healing.

Crown Cleaning

Crown cleaning focuses on removing dead, dying, or diseased branches. This improves the tree’s appearance while reducing the risk of branches falling and causing property damage. It also prevents the spread of disease to other parts of the tree.

Crown Reduction

Crown reduction involves reducing the tree’s height or removing larger branches. Recommended for younger trees, this method preserves the main limb while encouraging healthy growth and minimizing the risk of decay.

Crown Thinning

Crown thinning removes weaker branches to allow more sunlight and air to penetrate the tree’s interior. This technique helps reduce the load on larger branches while maintaining the tree’s overall structure.

Pollarding

Pollarding involves cutting back all the top branches of a tree while leaving secondary branches intact. This technique is best started when the tree is young and is typically maintained throughout the tree’s life.

When Should Tree Trimming Be Done?

The timing of tree trimming depends on the kind of tree. Give us a call at 845-331-6782 and we can guide you every step of the way. Additionally, immediate trimming may be needed if branches are blocking pedestrian or vehicle visibility, or if the risk of falling branches poses a risk to your family, neighbors or property.

Why Consider Tree Trimming in the Fall?

Enhanced Visibility

With fewer leaves, our team of tree professionals can easily identify weak or diseased branches for removal and make more precise cuts.

Disease Control

Pruning during the dormant season helps control disease and prepares trees for the growing season when insect activity increases.

Faster Healing

Trees experience less stress when pruned in their dormant phase, allowing them to heal faster and prepare for strong new growth in spring.

Protection Against Winter Weather

Fall pruning strengthens trees for winter, removing vulnerable branches and enhancing their resilience against high winds and heavy snow.

At Expert Tree Service, we’re proud to serve Ulster, Greene, Dutchess, and Columbia counties with decades upon decades of experience in professional tree trimming, removal, and care. Our team is committed to the safety and health of your landscape.

Contact us for a free assessment to keep your property safe and thriving all year long!