West Seattle Privet Tree Removal
Homeowner’s Issue
Privet invades yards fast across West Seattle, from narrow Admiral clips to the windswept slopes above Alki and the shaded corners near Lincoln Park. In our wet winters and mild summers, privet resprouts from roots and stumps, smothers natives, and creates dense hedges that hold moisture against foundations and fences. Soils here range from compacted glacial till to loamy fill in older lots — both let privet spread by suckering and hidden runners.
Rain-driven erosion on steep lots (like those up the Admiral and Alaska Junction ridges) pushes shallow roots into pathways and storm drains. Narrow access, terraces, and HOA curb-appeal rules make removal tricky: neighbors expect tidy edges and no visible debris. Sun exposure varies block by block — south-facing slopes dry faster and replanting windows open earlier, while north-side yards stay damp and favor moss and ivy.
Homeowners call us because they want a clean property line, safer sightlines at driveways, and lower maintenance without toxic herbicides. We focus on mechanical removal, stump grinding, and sustainable disposal, so you get lasting control, better soil conditions for native replacements, and a yard that meets local aesthetic and HOA expectations.
Our Quality Service
We remove privet using hand tools, chainsaws, a stump grinder, and a chipper for wood we can repurpose. Crews arrive with tarps, ropes, and erosion-control mats for steep sites and narrow alleys. We never apply herbicides — regrowth is managed mechanically and by targeted root removal and smothering where needed.
Typical timelines: single small shrubs can be done in a few hours; medium hedges take a half to full day; large multi-stem hedges or slope work may require a day or two and staged cleanup. We compost or haul green waste to approved facilities, and we can chip material into mulch for your beds. Work windows are scheduled outside heavy rain when possible to avoid rutting and compaction.
Benefits: improved sightlines and safety, curb appeal that respects West Seattle neighborhoods, lower long-term maintenance, and soil-friendly practices that make room for native plants.
What’s Included
- Onsite assessment and clear written estimate (photo estimates available).
- Cutting and removal of privet above grade.
- Stump grinding to at least 6–12” below grade where access allows.
- Debris removal and site broom-clean.
- Chipping of usable wood for mulch; green waste hauled to compost facility.
Options / Upgrades:
- Mulch + landscape fabric or biodegradable weed mat.
- Organic manual/thermal weed control (no herbicides).
- Haul-away vs. green-bin drop-off depending on HOA/City rules.
- Soil amendment and planting plan with native shrubs to reduce future invasions.
- Erosion control measures for slopes (coir logs, jute blankets).
Before & After / Expectations
Expect some noise and a mess during work—chainsaws, chippers, and haul trucks are part of the job. We protect driveways, fences, and lawn edges with tarps and plywood and sweep the public right-of-way. Stump grindings and chips may leave a work footprint for 24–48 hours while we finish hauling and compaction repairs.
After removal: monitor for basal resprouts in the first 12–18 months. In West Seattle’s climate, most resprouts show in spring; hand-pull or re-cut shoots early. For north-facing, damp sites watch for moss and ivy migrating into cleared spots; add mulch and increase sun exposure or plant shade-tolerant natives. Water new plantings in the first two summers during dry spells, but avoid overwatering on south slopes.
FAQs
Q: How long before I can plant after stump grinding?
A: You can plant in the same season once chips are removed and the hole is filled with topsoil or amended mix — we recommend waiting 2–4 weeks for settled soil on larger stumps.
Q: Do you use herbicides to stop regrowth?
A: No. We use mechanical removal, grinding, and organic smothering techniques only — no herbicides.
Q: What if access is tight (alley, stairs, narrow side yard)?
A: We assess access on-site and bring hand tools and smaller grinders as needed. Tight sites may increase labor; we’ll note that in the estimate.
Q: How soon can you start?
A: Photo estimates often same-week. Small jobs can be scheduled within 3–7 days; larger projects depend on permit/haul logistics.
Call to Action
Got privet crowding trees, sightlines, or your curb appeal in West Seattle? Book a free photo estimate and get a practical plan that uses sustainable methods and native-friendly follow-up. Quick scheduling, local crews who know the slopes and soil here, and straightforward pricing.
Email neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com to get started.
