Tree Care
When is the best time to prune my trees in Maryland?
Most structural pruning is best in late winter through early spring while trees are dormant. Safety pruning for broken or hazardous limbs can be done any time. We follow ANSI A300 timing guidance.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
Permit rules vary by county/HOA and whether the tree is near protected areas. We’ll advise during your estimate and handle Miss Utility coordination before work.
What happens to the stump after removal?
We offer stump grinding to 6–12″ below grade. Chips can remain or be hauled away on request so you can replant or re-sod.
What is Plant Health Care (PHC)?
PHC is proactive, science-based tree care—soil improvement, proper watering, pest/disease monitoring, and targeted treatments to keep trees healthy.
Do you offer emergency storm service?
Yes. Our crews provide 24/7 emergency response for hazardous limbs and storm-felled trees, using cranes and protective rigging as needed.
Licensing, Insurance, and Credentials
Are you licensed and insured to perform tree work in Maryland?
Yes. Quality Tree Inc. is fully licensed to operate as a Maryland Tree Expert, and we carry both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. This protects you as the property owner and provides peace of mind knowing your project is being handled by a legitimate, professional company.
What does ISA Certified mean?
ISA Certification means our arborists have been tested and recognized by the for their knowledge in tree biology, pruning, diagnosis, and safety practices. Certification must be maintained through continuing education, ensuring we always stay up to date with modern standards.
Do you carry workers’ compensation insurance?
Yes. We protect our employees with full workers’ compensation insurance. This means if an accident were to occur on your property, you are not held liable. Always confirm this coverage when hiring a tree company — many uninsured crews put homeowners at risk.
Do you follow ANSI A300 pruning standards?
Yes. We follow , which are the nationally recognized best practices for tree care. This ensures pruning cuts are made correctly to promote tree health and longevity, and that removals are conducted safely.
Do you have Maryland Licensed Tree Experts on staff?
Yes. Our team includes in addition to ISA Certified Arborists. This means we meet all state requirements to perform tree work legally and professionally.
Why should I hire a Certified Arborist instead of a landscaper?
While landscapers may trim shrubs or small ornamental trees, Certified Arborists are trained in tree biology, risk assessment, and hazard mitigation. Hiring the right professional ensures your trees are cared for properly and your property is protected.
How much training do your climbers and crew members have?
All of our climbers and crew receive hands-on training in safe climbing, rigging, and equipment use. They work under the supervision of Certified Arborists and experienced foremen to ensure every job meets our safety and quality standards.
Do you provide written contracts and estimates?
Yes. Every job includes a written proposal with a detailed scope of work. This transparency ensures you know exactly what services we will perform and what is included in the cost.
How do I verify your credentials?
You can verify ISA Certification on the and Maryland LTE licenses through the state’s official database. We are always happy to provide proof of insurance and certifications upon request.
What safety certifications does your team hold?
Our team includes ISA Certified Arborists and Certified Treecare Safety Professionals (CTSP). These certifications demonstrate advanced training in hazard recognition, job site safety, and best practices for high-risk tree work.
Tree Removal
How much does tree removal cost in Maryland?
The cost of tree removal varies greatly depending on the tree’s size, condition, and location. Small ornamental removals may cost a few hundred dollars, while large, hazardous removals requiring cranes can cost several thousand. We provide free on-site estimates so you have an accurate price for your specific project.
What factors affect the cost of tree removal?
Key factors include the tree’s size, proximity to structures, accessibility for equipment, condition (dead or unstable trees may be more dangerous), and whether stump grinding or debris hauling is included.
Do you remove large trees near houses safely?
Yes. We specialize in technical removals where trees are close to homes, driveways, or power lines. Using cranes, rigging systems, and advanced climbing techniques, we safely lower each section of the tree without damaging property.
Can you remove trees in tight spaces or fenced yards?
Yes. Even if our equipment cannot access the tree, our climbers can dismantle it safely using ropes and rigging. We routinely perform removals in backyards and other limited-access areas.
Do you provide crane-assisted tree removals?
Yes. For extremely large or hazardous trees, we often use cranes to remove sections of the tree safely and efficiently. Cranes minimize impact on your property and allow us to work quickly in high-risk situations.
How long does tree removal usually take?
Most tree removals can be completed in a single day, though very large or complex projects may take multiple days. During your estimate, we can give you a realistic timeline for your specific tree.
Do you haul away the entire tree after removal?
Yes. We clean up all brush, logs, and debris unless you request otherwise. Some clients prefer to keep firewood or mulch, which we are happy to accommodate.
What happens if a tree is too close to power lines?
If a tree is within 10 feet of utility power lines, the utility company may need to be involved. For all other situations, our trained crew can perform safe removals near secondary or service lines using insulated equipment and proper clearances.
Can you remove multiple trees at once?
Yes. We often remove several trees during one visit. This can be more cost-effective since equipment and crew are already on-site.
Do you remove dead trees differently than live ones?
Yes. Dead trees can be more brittle and unpredictable, making them more dangerous to climb. We may use cranes or bucket trucks to safely remove severely decayed or hazardous dead trees.
Pruning and Trimming
What is the difference between pruning and trimming?
Pruning is the selective removal of branches to improve a tree’s structure, health, and safety. It follows arboricultural standards and involves making precise cuts that benefit the tree long-term. Trimming, on the other hand, is a more general term often used for cutting back branches for appearance or clearance. At Quality Tree Inc., we practice professional pruning, not harmful “trimming” shortcuts.
When is the best time of year to prune trees in Maryland?
Most trees can be pruned safely year-round, but timing depends on the species. Oaks and elms should be pruned during the dormant season to reduce the risk of disease. Flowering trees may be pruned after they bloom to avoid removing buds. Our arborists will recommend the best timing for your specific trees.
Do you prune fruit trees?
Yes. We prune fruit trees such as apple, pear, cherry, and peach to improve structure, encourage healthy growth, and increase fruit production. Proper fruit tree pruning reduces overcrowding and allows more light to reach developing fruit.
Can pruning help reduce storm damage?
Yes. Strategic pruning removes weak, dead, or overextended branches that are most likely to fail in storms. Proper structural pruning also improves branch strength, reducing the chance of storm damage to your home, vehicles, or property.
What is crown thinning?
Crown thinning is the selective removal of smaller branches throughout the canopy to increase light penetration and reduce wind resistance. Done correctly, it helps the tree withstand storms and promotes healthier growth.
What is crown reduction?
Crown reduction is a pruning method that reduces the overall size of a tree by cutting back to strong, healthy lateral branches. This is much safer than “topping,” which leaves large, unhealthy stubs that weaken the tree.
Do you shape ornamental trees and shrubs?
Yes. We prune ornamental trees and shrubs such as dogwoods, redbuds, and magnolias for beauty, structure, and long-term health. Unlike hedge trimming, we use proper cuts that prevent stress and disease.
Do you prune young trees to improve structure?
Yes. Structural pruning of young trees is one of the most important investments you can make. Early pruning helps prevent poor branch attachments, codominant stems, and future hazards, while setting the tree up for strong growth.
Can pruning help a tree grow stronger?
Yes. Proper pruning encourages stronger branch attachments and balances the canopy. By removing competing or weak branches, the tree can put more energy into healthy growth, making it more resilient.
Why should I avoid topping my tree?
Topping is harmful because it removes large sections of canopy, leaving stubs that cannot heal properly. This makes trees vulnerable to disease, decay, and structural failure. It also causes weak, fast regrowth that quickly becomes hazardous. Instead, our arborists use crown reduction or selective pruning to manage tree size safely.
Plant Health Care (PHC)
What is Plant Health Care?
Plant Health Care, or PHC, is a proactive program designed to keep trees and shrubs healthy. It includes soil care, fertilization, pest and disease monitoring, and treatments when necessary. The goal is prevention and long-term health, rather than waiting until problems become severe.
Do you fertilize trees and shrubs?
Yes. We provide professional fertilization tailored to your soil and tree needs. Fertilization supports growth, improves resistance to pests and diseases, and helps stressed trees recover.
Do you treat soil compaction?
Yes. Soil compaction reduces oxygen and water availability to roots. We use specialized tools such as air spades to loosen compacted soil and restore healthy conditions for root growth.
Do you provide pest and disease management for trees?
Yes. Our arborists are trained to diagnose and treat common pests and diseases in Maryland, including emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly, ambrosia beetles, anthracnose, and more. We design safe, targeted treatments to protect your trees.
How do you test soil health?
We perform soil testing to measure pH, nutrient levels, and compaction. Based on results, we recommend amendments such as organic matter, fertilizers, or aeration to improve root health.
What is root zone aeration?
Root zone aeration uses compressed air tools to loosen compacted soil around the base of a tree. This improves oxygen and water movement, encouraging stronger root development and overall tree health.
Do you provide preventative care for trees?
Yes. Preventative care is at the core of our PHC programs. Regular inspections, fertilization, and treatments help reduce risks from pests, disease, and environmental stress before they become major problems.
How do I know if my tree needs PHC?
If your tree shows signs of stress such as early leaf drop, thinning canopy, yellowing leaves, or poor growth, it may benefit from PHC. Even healthy trees can benefit from preventative care to extend their lifespan.
Can PHC save a sick tree?
In many cases, yes. While not every tree can be saved, PHC treatments can often improve soil health, fight pests, and restore vigor to stressed or declining trees. Our arborists will evaluate your tree and recommend the best options.
Do you offer PHC programs for commercial properties?
Yes. We provide customized PHC plans for HOAs, apartment complexes, office parks, and municipal properties. Regular monitoring and treatments help protect the health, appearance, and value of large landscapes.
Emergency Tree Service
Do you provide 24/7 emergency tree removal?
Yes. Quality Tree Inc. provides emergency tree removal services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether a storm brings down a tree on your house, driveway, or business property, we respond quickly with the right equipment and trained crew to make the site safe.
How quickly can you respond after a storm?
We prioritize emergency calls immediately. Response time depends on storm severity and local road conditions, but our crews are available day or night to handle urgent removals. We also keep cranes and specialized equipment ready for storm response.
Do you work with insurance companies for storm damage claims?
Yes. We frequently assist homeowners with insurance claims for storm damage. We can provide detailed documentation, photos, and professional reports to help with your claim process.
Can you remove a tree from a roof safely?
Yes. Our trained climbers and crane operators specialize in removing trees from roofs and structures. We use rigging and lifting systems to carefully dismantle the tree while minimizing further damage to your home.
What should I do if a tree blocks my driveway?
Call us right away. We offer rapid-response services to clear blocked driveways and restore access to your property. Our crew can safely cut, remove, and haul away the obstruction.
Do you clear roads or HOA common areas after storms?
Yes. We work with homeowners’ associations, municipalities, and property managers to clear roads, entrances, and shared spaces after storms. We provide both emergency response and scheduled storm cleanup.
Do you provide temporary risk reduction if removal cannot be done right away?
Yes. In some situations, we can provide temporary solutions such as bracing, cabling, or partial removals to reduce immediate risk until a full removal can be scheduled.
Do you use cranes for emergency removals?
Yes. When large trees fall on structures or are too dangerous to climb, we use cranes for safe and efficient removal. Crane removals are one of our specialties.
How do I contact you during an emergency?
Call our main office line for 24/7 emergency service. Our phone number is monitored at all times, including nights and weekends, to ensure you reach us when you need us most.
Do you charge extra for after-hours emergency tree work?
Emergency tree service typically costs more due to urgency, additional equipment, and overtime crew requirements. We will provide clear pricing before starting work, even in emergency situations.
Stumps and Debris
Do you grind stumps after tree removal?
Yes. Stump grinding can be included in your tree removal service or scheduled separately. Grinding the stump below ground level allows for replanting, landscaping, or turf installation.
How deep do you grind stumps?
We typically grind stumps 6 to 12 inches below the surface. Deeper grinding can be arranged if you plan to replant in the same location or need additional clearance for landscaping.
Can you remove large stumps?
Yes. Our stump grinders can handle small ornamental stumps as well as large hardwood stumps from oaks, maples, and other mature trees.
What happens to wood chips after grinding?
Grinding produces a mound of wood chips mixed with soil. These can be left on site as mulch or hauled away for an additional fee. Many clients choose to keep the chips for landscaping use.
Can you remove roots as well as the stump?
Stump grinding removes the stump itself and larger surface roots. Complete root removal requires excavation and is more extensive, but it can be arranged if needed.
Do you provide stump grinding as a standalone service?
Yes. Even if we did not remove your tree, we can grind stumps left behind by another company or from trees that were cut years ago.
Can I replant a tree where the stump was removed?
Yes, but we recommend planting at least a few feet away from the old stump location to avoid interference from remaining roots and wood chips. With deep grinding and soil amendment, replanting is possible in the same spot.
Do you cut logs into firewood if requested?
Yes. If you would like to keep wood from your removal, we can cut logs into firewood lengths for you. Let us know in advance so we can include this in your estimate.
Can I keep mulch from my tree removal?
Yes. We can leave behind wood chips produced during your tree removal or pruning. Many clients use this mulch in gardens, around shrubs, or for erosion control.
Do you clean up all debris after the job?
Yes. We believe cleanup is part of the job. Our crews chip brush, haul logs, and rake the site to ensure your property looks neat and safe when we leave. Unless you request otherwise, all debris is removed.
Permits and Regulations
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Maryland?
Permit requirements vary by county and municipality. In some areas, permits are required for removing large trees, specimen trees, or trees near waterways and wetlands. We are familiar with local regulations and can help you determine if a permit is needed.
What are specimen trees and are they protected?
Specimen trees are unusually large or historically significant trees protected by local laws in some Maryland counties. Removing or pruning them may require approval. We can help identify whether a tree qualifies as a specimen tree and assist with the permitting process.
Do HOAs require approval for tree removals?
Yes. Many homeowners’ associations require prior approval for tree removals, especially in common areas. We frequently work with HOAs and property managers to provide documentation and recommendations for board approval.
Can you help with tree removal permits?
Yes. We regularly assist clients with the paperwork and documentation required for tree removal permits. This includes providing Certified Arborist reports and photos when needed.
Are there restrictions for removing trees near wetlands?
Yes. Trees located near wetlands, streams, or Chesapeake Bay Critical Areas are often subject to additional environmental regulations. Removal may require permits or mitigation planting. We will help you navigate these requirements.
Do I need permission to remove trees on commercial property?
In many cases, yes. Commercial properties often fall under county or city regulations that require permits or site plan approvals for tree removals. We can assist property managers and developers with compliance.
Can the county stop me from removing a tree on my property?
Yes, if the tree is protected as a specimen tree, part of a critical area, or regulated under local ordinances. Removing protected trees without permission can result in fines. Always consult with a Certified Arborist before proceeding.
What happens if a neighbor’s tree is hazardous?
If your neighbor’s tree poses a risk to your property, you may request they address it. If they refuse, you may have legal options. We provide professional tree risk assessments that can be shared with neighbors, HOAs, or insurance companies to help resolve disputes.
Can you testify for tree-related legal cases?
Yes. Our Certified Arborists can provide professional assessments and expert witness testimony for property damage, boundary disputes, or insurance claims involving trees.
Do you provide arborist reports for permits?
Yes. We prepare written arborist reports that outline the condition of a tree, the reason for removal or pruning, and the safest recommended action. These reports are often required for permits or HOA approvals.