Click here to get a visual of all the elements that could go wrong.

If you go that route, wear protective eyeglasses, earplugs and gloves.

While there are many good references for tree removal, most rely upon use of a chain saw and assume that the entire tree can be cut down. In this case the tree had to be removed piece-by-piece due to the lack of space in the yard. So we approached this like any other engineering bushlopping.barted Reading Time: 7 mins. Using that depth, dig around the tree’s roots, which likely extend out to the outer edge of the tree’s canopy. Using leverage, wiggle the root ball out.

If the roots are intact, you can transplant the tree. Or if you want to dispose of it, cut it up with a chainsaw. Try to make it as thick as possible. Figure out where you want the back cut to terminate and mark it on the tree. It should be at least inches above the horizontal cut for best results.

As you cut, place a wedge to prevent the tree from settling onto the chainsaw. Cut from the other side toward the big notch. When you get close to the notch the tree will start to lean away from you. If it doesn't, or if it leans the wrong way and binds your saw blade, have the Oompaloompas pull on the rope tied to the top of the bushlopping.barted Reading Time: 4 mins. May 29, When felling a tree, the rule of thumb is to make the depth of the notch one-fifth of the tree trunk's diameter.

The goal is to make the angles as shown in the diagram (or as close as you can). The felling cut should meet the point of the notch.

When the tree starts to fall, the hinge will help guide the tree to fall in the desired direction.