West Seattle Pre-sale tree pruning

Homeowner’s Issue

West Seattle yards present a specific set of pruning challenges: heavy winter rain, moss on shaded trunks, invasive ivy and blackberry pressure on slopes and ravines, and salt or wind exposure on bluff-front properties near Alki. Many lots are older with large maples, cedars, and firs that have not had regular structural pruning. Compacted soils and small planting strips mean roots compete with utilities and sidewalks; driveways on hillsides create extra erosion risk when crowns block airflow and rain from penetrating the root zone properly.

Buyers here expect tidy lines and safe sightlines — especially near Lincoln Park trails, California/Admiral commercial streets, and the steep blocks off SW Raymond or 35th. HOA rules and City of Seattle street-tree policies often require clean pruning and timely debris removal; leaving stubs or topping trees creates problems for resale and for neighbors. Sustainable pruning that reduces weight on major limbs, opens the canopy to reduce moss and disease, and preserves long-term structure will improve curb appeal without quick-fix removals. We never use herbicides; all methods focus on correct cuts, mulching, and organic clean-up so the yard looks ready for inspection on the first showing.

Our Quality Service

• Onsite assessment with clear recommendations tailored for West Seattle microclimates and slopes.
• Hand pruning, selective thinning, crown raising, and safe rigging for larger limbs; chainsaw work only where necessary and done cleanly.
• Tools: pole pruners, hand saws, climbing gear, rope rigging, and chippers for green waste. No herbicides used.
• Timeline: small jobs (1–3 small trees) usually complete same day; larger jobs (major crown work, multiple trees) scheduled over 1–2 days with clear staging.
• Local insight: we size cuts for compacted soils, avoid root collar disturbance, and plan for wet-season timing to reduce fungal risks.
  Benefits: improved safety, better curb appeal for showings, lower maintenance long term, and stable results that respect municipal rules.

What’s Included

• Core deliverables:
  • Assessment and prune plan.
  • Canopy thinning, crown raising, deadwood removal, and aesthetic shaping.
  • Site cleanup and basic chip/haul or green-bin-ready piles.
• Options / Upgrades:
  • Mulch installation (organic bark or compost) + fabric-free weed suppression.
  • Organic soil amendment and top-dressing.
  • Stump grinding or removal (separate quote).
  • Haul-away vs. curbside green bin prep (we follow Seattle disposal rules).
  • Small planting or replacement tree selection for resale curb appeal.

Before & After / Expectations

• Expect noise (saws, chippers) and some day-of debris for larger jobs. We stage work to minimize driveway blockage and coordinate parking/permits if street access is needed.
• Debris handling: choose haul-away (dump fee applies) or we’ll prepare green-bin/yard-waste piles compliant with Seattle rules.
• Timeline: most residential pre-sale jobs finish in one day; complex crowns or multiple large trees may need two visits.
• Care tips after pruning: keep fresh cuts dry for 24–48 hours when possible, apply 2–3” organic mulch (keep away from trunk flare), water young replacements during dry spells. Watch for spring shoot flush – light follow-up thinning may help. No herbicides recommended; remove invasive ivy and blackberry by hand to protect trunks.

FAQs

• Q: When is best time to prune for a pre-sale?
  A: Late winter to early spring is ideal in Seattle — dormancy reduces stress and reveals structure — but we can address hazards year-round.

• Q: Will pruning hurt my trees?
  A: Proper structural pruning improves long-term health. We avoid topping, use correct cut placement, and limit large removals unless necessary for safety.

• Q: Do you remove the material?
  A: Yes. Options: complete haul-away (quoted) or chip and leave/make green-bin piles per city rules.

• Q: Do you handle street trees or need permits?
  A: We can advise. Seattle/SDOT rules apply to street trees; we’ll note permit needs in the assessment.

Call to Action

West Seattle homeowners: get a straightforward pre-sale pruning plan that buyers notice and inspectors accept. Quick scheduling, honest estimates, and sustainable methods — no herbicides, just careful pruning and responsible clean-up. Email neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com to book a free photo estimate or onsite assessment. Phone: 206-538-9344.