Tree felling tutorial

About felling a tree in general

Felling a tree is a skill that requires careful preparation and compliance with safety requirements.

We have put together a tutorial on how to fell a small tree. Whether it is an ornamental tree in your backyard or a tree that has suffered major storm damage, planning the process and executing it efficiently will prevent potential injuries and damage. Below you will find a guide that includes instructions for felling a tree in different situations.

Felling a tree in the garden

Felling a tree in your backyard requires you to consider the denser environment and its specificities:

Assess the situation

Look to see if the tree is healthy or shows signs of damage (e.g. diseased or rotten wood).

During the assessment phase, determine which direction the tree should fall, avoiding buildings, power lines, and other obstacles.

Felling dangerous trees

Dangerous trees, such as storm-damaged or bent trees, require an especially careful approach.

Consider hiring a professional: If the tree is in a difficult location (e.g. next to a house or near power lines), the work should be entrusted to a professional arborist.

Improve safety:

Remove the tree gradually: If full felling is not possible, remove the branches and trunk in small sections.

Felling trees on your own plot

When dealing with trees on your property, there may be local regulations that should be followed.

Check the laws: Make sure you are allowed to cut down the tree. Official permits are required for protected trees.

Choose the right equipment: In addition to a chainsaw, it is useful to have a set of wedges and pullers to help control the direction of the fall.

Plan a danger zone: Consider the height of the tree and cut the tree at a safe distance from other objects.

Safety when felling a tree

Safety is paramount when working near cutting tools and heavy trees.

Wear all necessary protective equipment: A helmet, face shield, safety boots, and reflective vest should always be equipped.

Check your tools: Make sure your chainsaw is well maintained and sharp.

Know your escape route: Before lowering, determine how you can quickly get to the danger zone.

Always work with a clear head and a calm pace.

How to cut down a tree?

If you have decided to remove a tree, always start with careful planning. Imagine how the tree will fall and how you can control its movement. Let’s say the tree is in your yard and you have decided to remove it. Start with the direction of fall – make a wedge cut towards the front of the tree, then make subsequent cuts towards the back, maintaining constant control.

If the tree starts to move, back off immediately and make sure the fall goes as planned. The job is rewarding when done properly – minimizing hazards and achieving a safe outcome should always be the priority.

Cutting down the bush

Cutting down undergrowth is often necessary, for example, on residential plots to build a building or in a young forest to allow light to reach young seedlings. When removing undergrowth, it should be remembered that it is often a repetitive process that needs to be done every year or so. Because the plants are often quite tough trees, such as willows.