Palm Tree Removal

Palm trees are common along coastal or tropical locations. When they begin to show rot from disease or weather damage, the only recourse is to cut them down.  Having a palm tree removed will depend significantly on the height which can grow from twenty to more than 100 feet.

Diseases that Affect Palm Tree Removal

• Fusarium Wilt:  The fungus called Fusarium oxysporum causes fusarium wilt in palm trees. Once found, there is no cure, but care can slow down the dying stage considerably.
• Bud Rot: There are different forms of bud rot. The disease can be weather related after long periods of rain, and damage can happen after cold weather spells.

Once an infection begins, the palm tree will not recover. In younger palms, the leaves wilt, and black lesions appear on the green fronds as they rot. In older trees, the green fronds die last.  After this occurs, only the trunk of the palm remains.

Removal Process

The first thing you or a tree trimmer should do is assess the area for hazards. It is best to use a chainsaw for removal. Using your hand, feel for a rotted area starting at the base and moving upward until you find a space to cut. If the tree is less than eight inches wide, you can cut straight through. For more massive palm trees, a unique cutting technique will provide a safe removal process.
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Make sure you cut at least one to two feet off the ground. Using safety equipment, cut a third of the way through on the opposite side you want it to fall and insert a wedge. Cut a 45-degree upward angle on the opposing area of the palm you wish it to drop. Then cut about six inches above the initial cut at a 45-degree downward angle making a notch. The cutter should remove the wedge from the other side at this point. On side B, cut six inches above the other side straight through the palm tree until it falls. While it seems relatively easy to remove a palm tree, it should be done by a professional because of the hazards involved in cutting an unstable tree.