How to Cut Down a Hollow Tree

If you have a hollow tree on your property and want to cut it down safely, you can do so yourself without hiring a professional aborist. The job is straightforward but requires a bit of planning to fell the tree without damaging a house, shed or other nearby structure. You only need one tool and a couple of safety items. Use the same procedure to fell a hollow tree as you would any other tree.

Safety goggles
Gloves
Chain saw

Instructions

- 1
  Move everything away from the hollow tree that could be damaged when the tree falls, including vehicles.
- 2
  Determine which way you want to fell the hollow tree. This area should be clear of any structures and other trees; structures can be damaged while other trees may "prop-up" the hollow tree as it falls. Fell the tree in the same direction it leans, if possible.
- 3
  Put on safety goggles and gloves. Start your chain saw and cut a face notch on the side of the tree facing the area you want it to fall. Create a face notch by cutting down into the trunk at a 60- to 70-degree angle, about three-quarters of the way into the trunk and 1 to 2 feet from the ground.
- 4
  Complete the face notch by cutting up into the same side at 60 to 70 degrees to meet the first cut. This creates a V-shaped notch.
- 5
  Walk around to the opposite side of the tree. Saw a back cut into the trunk at a 45-degree angle until it reaches about 1 inch from the face notch. The hollow tree should begin to fall from its own weight.
- 6
  Remove the chain saw and turn it off, walk away from the tree, letting it fall to the ground.

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