Learn the Tree Terminology We Use for Services in Lancaster & York, PA

If you’ve ever needed to hire someone to work on the trees in your yard, they may have used some terms you didn’t quite understand. What’s the difference between tree pruning and pruning back, anyway? You deserve to understand the nuances and be crystal clear on the tree terminology used for your Lancaster or York, PA, home.

To ensure we’re on the same page when we make recommendations for the trees on your property, here are some common terms we use to describe our tree services. These services, which span from tree trimming to tree stump removal, are performed by our trained and educated team using the best equipment available. Plus, a certified arborist oversees the entire process. So when you are ready to get work done on your trees, call us for a free quote!

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Tree Trimming Terminology

Like any other specialized trade, we often use terminology that may be unfamiliar to our customers. While some of these tree trimming terms can overlap with the tree stump removal and tree removal terms for homes in Lancaster & York, PA, the five listed in this section are the ones most often used for keeping your trees in pristine condition.

Tree Pruning

Tree pruning is a term used to describe how we trim select branches and limbs. The branches we select absorb too many vital nutrients and do not leave enough for the tree’s main body. Removing them helps improve the overall health of the tree.

When trees have had proper care early in their lives, there should be little need for structural pruning once they reach maturity. For mature trees, pruning will help maintain proper structure, form, appearance, and health.

Thin Out

When we thin out a tree, we remove live branches from the tree’s outer layer that are duplicating or crossing. The removal of branches allows better wind penetration and air movement. When it comes to older trees, we don’t thin out more than one-third of the live foliage to protect its health.

Additionally, thinning out a tree helps improve the health of surrounding plants, such as shrubs, grass, and other trees.

Deadwood

When we use “deadwood” as tree terminology describing the limbs of your Lancaster or York, PA, trees, we’re referring to dead or dying limbs.

trees that have been pruned back and shaped

Prune Back to Reduce the Overall Size

When trees become oversized or cumbersome, the best solution is to reduce the tree’s overall size rather than topping the tree. Reducing the overall size and height of the tree helps maintain its form and structural integrity.

tree canopy almost touching roof of house

Raise Lower Canopy

Removing low selective limbs provides better clearance for pedestrians and vehicles and more light for grass to grow.

Need Tree Trimming Services?

Regardless of your tree’s age, tree trimming services can improve its overall health. If the shape of your tree needs some work, or you need to remove branches to allow air and sunlight to come through, contact us for a quote.

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Tree Removal Terminology

Sometimes you need more than just a branch or two removed from the tree. You may need the entire tree removed instead. Learn about the tree removal terms we may use when called to your property in Lancaster or York, PA.

removing tree and stump and other debris

Tree Removal

Tree removal involves cutting down, removing the wood, and cleaning up all debris from the process. Upon request, the wood can be cut into firewood-length limbs/logs 6″ to 8″ diameter and larger for an additional charge.

Cut as Low as Possible

Cutting the tree trunk as close to the ground as possible leaves the stump in place. Though, we also recommend tree grinding services, as leftover stumps can attract insects and fungi.

Removal Special Requests

Sometimes our customers want to use their cut logs for firewood. We are happy to provide this service for an additional charge. We can cut logs and limbs 6” to 8″ in diameter into sections approximately 18″ in length. We’ll leave them with you so you can use them for firewood.

Need Tree Removal Services?

If you have an old, diseased, or nuisance tree in the way, get in touch with our tree removal experts for fast and easy removal. Request a quote today!

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Tree Stump Removal Terminology

Stumps left in the yard can be unsightly and dangerous. That’s why calling us for tree stump removal is important to ensure the job is done right and you can reclaim that space in your yard. Here is some of the tree terminology we use when removing tree stumps in Lancaster and York, PA.

Grind Stump

If you ask us to grind your tree stump, we’ll grind out the stump 6″ to 8″ below ground level. Surface roots are not included in the cost of stump grinding. If you want the stump ground deeper, we can do deep grinding (13” to 20” below the ground level) for an additional charge. Additionally, surface root grinding is available for an additional charge.

filling a wheel barrow up with a pile of mulch

Remove Stump Grindings

Some people prefer to keep the stump grinding on their property to use for mulching or composting. However, we also provide removal of grindings produced while grinding out a stump.

Need Tree Stump Removal Services?

Ready to get rid of that old, pesky stump in your yard? Contact us today to request your quote for stump grinding services.

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For More Information on the Tree Terminology We Use in Lancaster & York, PA, Call Us!

Getting work done on your trees shouldn’t be confusing. That’s why we hope this tree terminology list for your property in Lancaster and York, PA, helps you better understand our process. If you still have questions or are ready to request a quote for our tree service, contact us today!

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Emergency Tree Care

Has a recent storm brought down large limbs or a tree on your property?
The weight of storm-damaged trees makes them difficult and dangerous to remove on your own. Doug's Tree Service has the right equipment and an experienced crew to remove large limbs and trees safely without risking further damage to your property.

Call us for expert assistance at (717) 684-6489 throughout Lancaster and York, PA.

See What Our Customers Have to Say

I highly recommend Doug's tree service. We had a very old willow tree, 5' diameter trunk, that fell during a storm. Doug's was quick to get us a quote and quick with their scheduling. They were very reasonably priced, cheaper than two other quotes I received. Now to the work done: thorough, professional, and incredible! A crew of 3 gentlemen worked efficiently together and we were impressed with the level of corrdination and trust in each other they showed. From arrival to driving away, they only took 2 hours thanks to their skill, professional equipment, and teamwork. They removed every bit of the fallen tree, and went beyond to clean up the collateral damage to other trees next to it. Their final cleanup was thorough and particular, leaving the area looking professional and clean. The tree had smashed our shed, and they took the time to use a front end loader to group the shed remnants into one area to make our next cleanup steps easier. Since we were home, they also stopped for a quick chat of advice at the end. Everyone I spoke with, from Lori during scheduling to each of the crew members, was friendly, courteous, and positive. Again, highly recommended!

Joseph Scholz

6/22/2022

We recently moved to Mount Joy and one big plus about our home was the tree line and associated shrubs on our property. After living here a few months, we decided to thin out some large shrubs and also have six+ trees taken out on the edge of our lot. Doug came out to give me an estimate and I was pleasingly surprised at the cost estimate. Their crew came out once for the shrubs and small trees last month and then today for the large trees. I was extremely pleased with the skill and professionalism of the crew. Their equipment was awesome and that enabled them to remove the trees and debris in short order. Not only was the work done carefully and timely, but the cleanup was the icing on the cake. Doug's Tree Service guys really care about their work and they aim to really please their customer. I would have given them a six star review if I was able!

Douglas Penvose

11/16/2023

This crew is great! I have never worked with a company that was as efficient and as professional as Doug's tree services. They removed two trees and trimmed another and left nothing behind except what they did not have room for (it filled the mulcher/dump truck) BUT, they were here Sunday morning to clear the remainder and are now cleaning everything back up and blowing away the leaves and smaller debris. I got many quotes, all were approximately the same except one who was 3 times the amount, most of which also said they would destroy our newly installed flowerbeds. Not these guys, never heard that once. They did not hurt one bloom or branch of anything recently planted. We will call them again as we have a few more larger trees we do not want to tackle ourselves. I would recommend them to anyone that asks!

Colleen Knight

11/22/2018

We contracted Doug's Tree Service to prune and remove deadwood from our dogwood tree, remove and lower tier our Norway Spruce limbs (they had gotten so large they were scraping the roof of our vehicles when going in and out of our driveway). Also to remove an overgrown lilac bush and remove the stump, add soil and seed. The results of their work was awesome! The crew of three (Dougie and the 2 guys who worked with him ) came right on time, worked continuously together and completed the work in no time at all. They cleaned up the cuttings throughly. They made sure that I was happy with the results before they left. Kudos to Doug for having such a great staff and crew! Great quote too! Christine coordinated the job with me (awesome customer service skills)! I highly recommend Dougs Tree Service!!

Terry Taylor

11/08/2022

I needed to have an oak tree in a very difficult position removed from my yard. It was a very challenging spot with lots of opportunities to cause damage if not done correctly. I called several companies, and Doug's gave me a very fair estimate. They also gave me a detailed plan on how they would do the job without causing damage. They brought the BIG crane truck and removed the entire tree in 2 hours without an issue. I'm very impressed with the workmanship and professionalism and will definitely use them in the future. I don't leave reviews very often but the positive reviews are one reason that I called Doug's in the first place so I'm leaving one now so that I will hopefully help others to make an informed decision also.

Wes M

4/18/2023

Doug’s Tree Service is AWESOME! We had several companies turn us down bc of the tree size and location to power lines. Doug’s bid our job without any hesitation. They are very knowledgeable, friendly and courteous! The job they did was exactly as discussed and completed quickly and efficiently…..minimal disruption to traffic flow in our neighborhood too! Signage was very good and well placed with safety in mind. The workers were very respectful of all surrounding properties and cleaned up, removing all tree debris and leaves better than they found it. Since this is a very busy company, this job was scheduled weeks ago. Communication was very good throughout the entire job! Thank you guys for doing a spectacular job for us!

Sandra Ream

11/19/2024

Knowing how good their work was, I surprised when I received the estimate. It was much lower than I thought it would be. We have 2 trees that were original when our house built, about 25 years ago. The one on the front of our house was get out of balance and much too tall for us to control anymore. Doug did a great job with topping the tree off, balancing it and cleaning it out. It doesn't look like a chopped tree, just one in good shape. He did the same for our other tree, except topping it. I am very picky about the cleanliness of crews that work for us and I couldn't find not one stick on the ground when he left. Nor was their any damage for the very large apparatus that was used to get 40-50' in the air.

Evan T

1/10/2023

Great experience overall. I received several quotes to remove a dying tree, and Doug's offered the most competitive quote. They have good reviews, so I felt comfortable choosing them. It took a bit longer than I'd have liked to get them out to remove the tree, but they did have to coordinate with PPL so I'm sure that played a role. They showed up around 8am, and were cleaned up and out by 11. They left everything looking as good as it was when they arrived. A week or so later they came back to grind the stump. Again, they did a great job of cleaning up the grindings. Overall a great experience. I wouldn't hesitate to hire Doug's again for any future work I may need.

Matt Lehman

1/01/2025

I would give 10 stars if I could. From start to finish these guys were great, I had a massive tree in the back yard that three other companies said was impossible to take down. Doug’s Tree Service came out for the quote and gave me a detailed plan on how they were going to take this tree down. They had to take their equipment through three other yards…. That being said you couldn’t even tell they were there. All of the guys were professional and cleaned up my yard and neighbors yard better than they found it. I can’t say enough good things about this company. I will be recommending Doug’s Tree Service to everyone I know. Thank you for this priceless piece of mind.

ian worley

5/04/2024

Doug came personally to evaluate our damaged, extremely large, pin oak that was very close to our house. He was courteous and gave a very competitive estimate. All further communications were timely and helpful. The job was done on time (with a weather delay that doesn't count) and very professionally. The team, with crane, cherry-picker, etc, came on a Friday and Doug completed the job himself over the weekend. He then carefully ground the stump, filled in dirt as needed, packed it down by hand and planted grass seed. A high quality job at a reasonable price. And also a difficult job given the placement of the large tree. Very highly recommended.

Scott Lerner

11/22/2018

Fantastic service and great company/people to work with. Cannot highly recommend enough. We had a massive maple taken down because it was hollow and a major liability, and they came back twice to make sure the stump was ground down the way we wanted - I'd like to add that the owner himself came back to check the results a week after the tree was removed and took it upon himself to have his guys come back to finish up some rougher spots. We were sad to see the tree go, but we are extremely happy with the results and the value of the removal for the price paid. The whole team was extremely efficient and professional, and we're super thankful!

Ashlynn Jimenez

2/02/2024

Dougs tree service had the most reasonable bid for a removal and trimming two large trees growing over our house and our neighbors house. We also had fencing and other obstacles on the ground. The crew they sent to do the job were very skilled and professional. They worked hard and very efficient as a team. I worked as a climber for 7 or 8 years as a young man and know a good job when I see one. My mature trees having been trimmed multiple times by other tree services And now they have never looked better. Needless to say I wasn’t just pleased I was impressed. Havinh worked in this field myself, I highly recommend Doug's tree service.

Michael Conner

11/22/2020

One of the the tallest oak trees on Spencer Av in Lancaster, towering over our house at ~100' and 54" in diameter, was dying and no longer salvageable. There was no question who to call. Doug's crew was simply, as my wife Cindy put it, "incredible". We marveled at how efficiently and relatively quickly they got the job done...and how immaculately they cleaned everything up. Two of the stump pieces were too challenging for the claws to remove, so they said they would return after doing another big job in Lititz - as they did. Thank you, Jason, Greg, and the other crew members whose names we didn't get. 100%+ satisfaction!

Don Eidam

11/22/2017

WOW... Doug's Tree Service is top notch. We have had 16 trees removed over 20 years, using multiple tree services. Doug's Tree Service by far is the superior tree service. They brought 6 pieces of equipment, including a 150' crane, boom truck, massive tree chipper, and other trucks to remove the wood chippings. They removed 4 trees, 2 over 100' tall. Our property was cleaner when they left, then it was when they arrived. The guys working were so knowledgeable, talented, and the cleanest. I posted lots of photos and videos of their great work. I HIGHLY recommend Doug's Tree Service. Thanks guys...

Brian Martini

2/09/2024

I had some large trees cut by Doug's. I got multiple quotes at similar prices and went with Doug's based on good reviews. On the morning of the work I was told they could not do the work at the quoted price and the actual price was an additional 700$ (13% more) for the same work. The crew did a good job and cleaned up well. I understand mistakes happen but for a 13% error I am disappointed that Doug did not honor their quote. A last minute price change is difficult to stomach after signing a quote, waiting for the work and declining similar quotes.

Gabe Umholtz

2/27/2025

This is our second time using Doug’s and they did a heck of a job removing my neighbor’s trees and trimming a few trees on my property. Their service is top notch from beginning to end. Josh their estimator was great at mapping out our project. Lori at the office is great to work with. And their on site team including Josh are fast, efficient, and cleaned everything up upon completion. And you get great bang for your buck if you need more than one tree removed and trimmed. This is a top notch company! Highly recommend!

Dennis Bakay

8/31/2023

This company has an incredible array of equipment and experts whom they employ. They just removed a giant red maple and 9 cedars in a hedgerow. They were prepared, efficient and masters of the industry. They cleaned up afterwards and done in short order. This is the second time they’ve done work for us (first involving some very awkwardly placed trees requiring tree climbers). In terms of service, equipment and efficiency, cannot be beat for the price. These folks have a solution for any tree problem!

Kevin Heinrich

1/22/2022

Doug's tree service is truly one of the best tree companys in the bussiness I had 4 huge trees taken down in the most awkward place a tree could grow Doug's had no problem removing them the cleanup was great and I must say there prices are unbeatable Josh was great at organizing and setting up the removal thanks Doug and josh and team for your remarkable service I surely will not hesitate to call you again or spread the word 5 star service all the way

Bryan Shue

11/22/2020