Removing the Big Locust Tree, Moving Trees & Planting Lilacs! 🌳🪓🍂 // Garden Answer

[@katiegray14]

The tree company did an incredible job and left it so clean! The attention to detail they have is spot on!

[@pegquilty592]

Just a thought, a small berm beside your entrance gate(where you had been considering a water feature) would look great. And it would definitely prevent anybody from even contemplating squeezing in past the gate, especially if you incorporated a few half buried rocks/boulders. 😉

[@CrispeeCrisps15]

@@pegquilty592 it wouldn’t stop people

[@pegquilty592]

@ a further deterrent is what I meant

[@laurapeterson4052]

I had the same thought

[@bloom-chirp]

With some big rocks too.

[@gretchenburton7184]

Excellent idea. Some mass flanking the gate would enhance the statement❤

[@teresadeforge2911]

So hard to see your beautiful tree go but it definitely served you well

[@marcyweaver920]

We had a massive oak fall "on" our house Jan 2018. (It thankfully only clipped the corner of our roof and broke some of our deck). When we looked to see why it came down on a relatively still night, like your tree, ot had heart rot. 😢 My neighbor harvested 8 cords of wood from the limbs and another friend managed to take a couple sections of trunk to his mill to make into table slabs. Four years later, he brought us the most beautiful 3' side table on an old sewing machine frame as a thank you for allowing him to take the oak. What a win-win!!! I pray you find your "win" in this situation too.

[@raeperonneau4941]

What a lovely story.

[@mitchmiller1429]

My Mom used to quote a poem every time I trimmed one of her trees. Woodsman, woodsman spare that tree chop not a single bough! For years it has protected me, and I’ll protect it now!

[@sherylemoore8626]

I feel your pain over the Locust. I have an old weeping cherry that has seen better days. I know it is time, but I feel like I am losing an old friend. The maples flanking the gate are so lovely. You continue to surprise and inspire me with each new project and planting. The day I found your channel was a game changer for me.

[@CrispeeCrisps15]

It’s a tree plant a new one

[@JHG123]

Why doesn’t Laura plant a large tree there like she has in many other places on her property? Seems like a no brainer to me.

[@carolinebcollier]

@@JHG123It would seem she’s embracing the opportunity to try something different than what they have had.

[@janicebrowningaquino792]

Me too 😊

[@karencampbell9770]

I too have a very large apple tree in a prominent position off our side door. It’s dying. I’m trying to hold on but it will have to come down. 😢

[@oceanbreezes1]

I just wanted to say thank you Laura and Aaron for being a place of peace and sanity in this insane world. I actually sighed and relaxed the moment the video started. You are so appreciated ❤️

[@Kings.2828]

We just took out a 100 ft white oak that had the same thing happening. Slowly dying in the canopy. And was just too close to the house. When it came down the inside was hollow like that. It was a relief to have it taken care of. I worried every wind storm.

[@Yaketyyak21]

I always think the best view from a kitchen window is wildlife.

[@kathit.275]

Laura, you were so brave and let this beautiful old tree go. Throw that slimy lilac out now too.

[@sallyemerson-brasch5195]

“Barn’s burnt down, now I can see the moon.” My favorite saying that pertains to so much in our lives.

[@annehedlund7333]

Amen!

[@rebeccawoodbixler9536]

That tree removal reminds me of life. When we move, lose a friendship, or struggle with a trail, it opens up so many new possibilities for growth in other areas. While it’s sad, the only thing that stays the same is change. I know you’ll do something spectacular in that space!🩵

[@stephaniegower5103]

Your tree guys are so respectful of your garden and leave it looking so lovely after taking out such a major tree. Kudos to the crew! Super job 👏🏻

[@megansuchy2339]

And one era has ended but a new one begun. What a blessing to witness ❤

[@Zinlin-n5k]

Like many other viewers, I appreciate the joy you bring to my day. Your videos always feel like islands of safety, sanity, and inspiration. I am grieving along with you at the loss of your locust tree.

[@FrediOlson]

Having watched you for so many years, I got emotional watching the Locust come out. Thankfully you won't have to worry about it coming down in a storm. Looking forward to your plans for that space. Whatever they are, I'm sure they will be beautiful. That tree company is amazing!

[@karencurtis6141]

You were wise to remove the tree 🤗, it’s little heart had gone it was a stunning tree and I totally understand your sadness, but you have saved so many this year the tree god will be very thankful to you🥰. A tree either side of the gate …. I’m 60 and a half 😂🤣 and I hope to see so many of your trees mature over the years to come. I can’t help but rewatch the first of this years trees with lights, your neighbours are so lucky to get to see the magic happening. Take care xx xx

[@valerieunger211]

Ah, Laura. I could feel your sadness throughout this video. And I could feel you pushing through to help you and all of us remember there’s always a silver lining. You are a treasure and I hope you can feel this virtual hug coming your way through the ether!

[@tinam9844]

So sad to see the Locust go it was a spectacular piece in that garden, but now Laura you can work your magic and bring something even more beautiful!

[@OR10777BE]

The maples framing the front gates look simply perfect! It really does. Removing the granddaddy locust tree is a good step towards making that garden bed much healthier, and offers a new opportunity to make it all truly your own design. Have a fab week guys! ✨🪴✨

[@CrispeeCrisps15]

@@OR10777BE they didn’t really have a choice

[@cynthiafisher9907]

Just imagine how those maples will look in 10 years! It will be stunning!

[@LimeLM3]

Lauren, I love what you did to those empty lots. Seeing the south garden changing as each year is a joy. Thanks for sharing what you love and bring a little joy to some of our lives.

[@upnorth21]

Love the two trees by the gate, and how they will create an arch. Such fun projects on your sight today.

[@ingesexton811]

I absolutely LOVE the machine they use to move the trees. its one one my favorite things to watch.

[@shavelka4603]

Win for Aaron, thinking ahead made this tree balancing possible 😊

[@kmsch986]

I’ve learned strategically placed boulders in your front area are always worth it. I had someone drive a six horse trailer through my yard when they couldn’t make a turn ripping up new sod, landscaping I had just put in. When I fixed it, I placed six large boulders in the area so it would never happen again.

[@annehedlund7333]

Should have raised platforms of boulders to drop on wayward cars and trucks!

[@cynthiafisher9907]

😮😢

[@nnagle9224]

The tree company was terrific - you would think it was their property when they were cleaning. I loved the "spare" maple - it is always so obvious when people lose a plant in a row or group. Foresight is especially in gardens like yours.

[@lynnpetti3817]

That removal was impressive.

[@saundrawilliams1601]

I used to play in my grandmothers lilac bush with my sister and a cousin. It was a very old bush with multiple trunks that was large enough to have 3 “rooms” to hold all 3 of us with some of grandma’s old cracked and broken tea cups & some old spoons and our baby dolls. The leaves went all the way to the ground so we could hide from our brothers. It took weeks for them to find our “Girls Only Club” when they did, they threw all our dolls & tea cups out into the yard. Oh we had a fit!!! Grandma made them pick it all up, but then she told us we had to share and swap days with them. It just wasn’t the same, so we lost interest, funny when we didn’t want it anymore, they didn’t either. Grrrrrr BOYS! lol Fond memories from a 72 y/o ❤

[@Redbudwoods]

Those guys did an amazing job! Doesn’t even look like anything happen! So excited to see what will be there in the future!

[@SuperSassyLassy]

I love the new tree by the gate. I'm sure it will all be glorious decorated for the holidays! Wouldn't it be fun for the Nutcrackers to stand guard there?

[@lorihanby6733]

Having skilled professionals do an amazing job taking down a tree you loved is priceless. I bet whatever you create in that space will end up being loved even more. I hope you do at least a small kitchen herb garden.

[@cherylkling3013]

As soon as you showed the white fence with the camera in the turn around area, I knew someone would hit that fence! OMG people drive so crazy!

[@lynkarpick8037]

What a day! Beautiful plantings! Especially the maple at the gate!!! Hard to lose such a large tree. Now you have an answer why it died. Thanks for sharing another day with us!❤❤❤

[@heidigresh2743]

What a fantastic tree removal company! I am impressed!!

[@debbyholmquest5220]

I’m glad to hear that you stare at your garden. I do the same thing. My daughter gave me Garden Answers kneeling mat. I love it!

[@judymckerrow6720]

Did you EVER imagine, that you would need a gate to keep people out, that you would own so much land, that you would ever be able to have such beautiful gardens and that almost two million people would subscribe to your KZbin channel ? 🦃🍁💚🙃 if dreams came true that would be a dream of mine. Well maybe not the two million people part. 🦃🍁💚🙃

[@cynthiafisher9907]

Being famous is the last thing I would ever want!

[@shellyroman1321]

I am sorry for the loss of your Locust Tree.♡ I live in the house I grew up in, and we have a Honey Locust that my dad transplanted from his childhood home. I love this tree. The branch structure is regal and the shade it creates is amazing. I came home last week from the opposite direction that we normally do and the neon yellow fall color hit me in the face! The sun was setting and it's light was hitting that tree in the most glorious way! As I approached our driveway, I thought, "what is that tree? Whose is that?" I felt very excited to see it in my yard. I took a ton of pictures, and approached my house that way the rest of the week♡

[@sherriianiro747]

Beautiful trees! They live up to 90 yrs. - lots of them here where it's rainy and humid!

[@LindaKing-jr4fz]

It's always hard a tree that's been part of your yard has to go but I'm sure you'll come up with something beautiful. The maples look great!!

[@BS-j1965]

For the love of trees👏🏻👏🏻good morning all. Watching on tree come down and two more going in is a beautiful sight to see. Most people are not in the position to do that, wish we all were, that’s taking care of Mother Earth for sure. I have pictures of a beautiful silver maple we planted 45 years ago. My oldest daughter is standing in front of the tree in her First Communion dress and the circumference looks to be maybe 6 to 8 inches, 6 years later my youngest standing in the same spot same dress and the circumference looks like it doubled in size. Here it is 45 years later and we went back to the old neighborhood just to take a drive through and I swear that tree is still standing, healthy looking and at least 3 feet if not more around, I couldn’t get my arms around it!!! So wonderful to see it proudly standing so tall and straight 🙏🏻🙏🏻♥️♥️

[@frasersgirl4383]

My heart goes out to you on the loss of the tree. It’s such a loss. 💔💫💔

[@laurieh9388]

It'll be nice to have a herb garden next to your kitchen. How fun and beautiful!

[@lizstrickland9736]

Watching the tree go made me cry. Reminded me of The Giving Tree. I know it will be missed.

[@gabthechef3790]

I love seeing when Laura is ‘editing’ the garden, since I have to do that a lot too (since I’m making all sorts of mistakes with plant placing...). I would add boxwood hedge curving on both sides of the gate. That would eliminate any driving around the gate and also would mark the entry.

[@cynthiafisher9907]

Good idea!

[@patfajardo3092]

I would shop for another Locust tree. 😍😍

[@LS-el7sf]

Great project! Wondering why you don't seem to use the Land and Sea Compost anymore? Especially when the soil seems so heavy. Thanks!

[@LisaRizzo-qm5wi]

You and Aaron are such considerate neighbors. I’m curious if you’ve ever had a neighbor reply they would prefer you NOT do a particular planned project and therefore you changed directions? You are kinder than most to ask and they certainly do seem quite open to your projects. But then again you do beautiful work!!

[@eileenchang2173]

They are fortunate they don’t live in urban area where there are so many bylaws, including erecting a shed or a fence. There are neighbours who will complain to the City immediately if they feel that a bylaw is being broken.

[@gretchenburton7184]

​@@eileenchang2173or an HOA where I live in socal.

[@denisefaust1290]

Can’t wait to see what you decide to do with the kitchen garden.

[@CatCaretakerID]

So many possibilities. Sad to see the locust go but relieved it won't fall on its own and do harm.

[@bobr9895]

The gates really change the looks of your entrance. Planting it up will really change it more. Looks good.😊

[@wehaveshortlegs6295]

The saddened countenance of your voice was noted as you narrated for us, the steps of the locust tree removal Laura, and with reasons that many of us can understand. Nature provides a connection of creation to Creator. We know that after you take time to sit with this particular change, you will come forth with a beautiful idea and it will be one that is perfect for the stage of life your family is walking through right now! And daaang…that decaying tree trunk was confirmation that it’s time for removal was at hand!! How frightening to think that it could have crashed into your home! QUESTION about those lilacs you wintered over from last year: as you keep plants in their cans over the spring, summer and fall, do you ‘feed’ them throughout the seasons they are in their nursery pots/cans with a liquid fertilizer or Plant Tone of some sort? And how frequently? Thank you!

[@jerushasollenberger3607]

Just an idea since I’m not the one paying for it😂 do brick pillars at the small gate too, and then build a curved brick wall between the two gates, so nobody drives through the flower bed. And it would just look epic❤

[@Pachinko1]

I love your attitude to change i.e. seeing the bright sides and acknowledging the loss of the locust tree. I can see the cogs turning in your mind about what that space will become ❤

[@SSS-sd1cf]

The maple trees at the gate are going to be beautiful! Can't wait to see it!

[@carmenmarcinkiewicz7149]

OH MY WORD!! How amazing the space looks where the tree was removed!!!!

[@jennellebailey]

I believe it’s very important for the base of a tree and the root flare to be exposed to the air or problems will arise.

[@deniseerskine858]

Perfect spot for an outdoor kitchen, with a small kitchen garden.

[@barbaracarlson1331]

You are so lucky to have a company do such a careful job removing that tree. The care they took is astonishing. Haven’t seen anything so well done anywhere where I live.

[@jessicaf316]

The one guy at the last sweeping with the tiny broom 😂 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@highlandlakecottage4276]

The big tree process is just amazing!

[@Scrabble8393]

Just a thought but that camera location on the fence will capture plates nicely. Moving it could lose the angle; I think once all the infrastructure is in place you’ll be in a good place. I appreciate the teamwork in your marriage. Something that was strong in my marriage before my husband’s life altering injury. You work to each other’s strengths and it is such a blessing ❤. May you always love and support each other.

[@debbybrown5961]

Love the flying stump grinder😂. Are you going to plant things in the spring? I heard you should not plant where a tree was taken down for a year. Have you heard that? Your thoughts?

[@DonnaDickson-jj8vj]

Laura I am so addicted to your videos I miss you guys terribly on the weekends LOL but I'm glad to see you get to spend more time relaxing and being with family anyway keep doing what you guys do I look forward to your videos every single day

[@cynthiafisher9907]

Do you go to church? I find so much friendship and encouragement on Sunday mornings at my church. My weekends would be lonely without my church family.

[@sandieweatherup]

I've had some of my best gardening ideas looking out my kitchen sink window and at the breakfast table in my bay window. The inspiration flows when we're still and quiet. Have fun dreaming of all you can do in the space.

[@gailforbes7834]

Love your outlook on losing your tree! As you obviously know, exciting things can emerge from loss!👍🏻❤️

[@kathy8832]

Good morning! I does look so much better with that locust tree gone. I’m sure that you will put something in that spot to make it beautiful. The Maple that you transplanted by the gate looks good now that it’s matched on the other side of the gate.

[@karynboatman994]

I cry every time an older tree is cut down. I know sometimes it has to happen because they can fall and hurt someone or damage property but they are such wise old living beings it hurts my heart a little each time one dies.

[@rewbew9345]

We had a 50-something maple brought down in October on the north side of our house. It started dying after the power company took to it due to the power lines. I wish I hadn’t watched because it gave me ounces of anxiety. But I have an in-home daycare and the kids LOVED watching. But, you are so right. Lots of emotions.

[@susanvonrauensteinbreuls6058]

Must say it made me sad to see the Locust go it was a beautiful tree that gave the space a whimsical feel. love the gate with the two trees makes it feel stately.

[@heatherw.2751]

Wow, I’m so impressed with that tree company! The guys around my area would’ve made a complete mess of it!

[@dianebateman6808]

Sad to see the Locust tree go but you really cannot tell until you look over the fireplace area, I'm sure whatever you decide to do in that area will be amazing! The new gate area is looking stunning with the addition of the maple tree, they look so majestic perched there. That entrance is starting to look great, I like the idea of a berm with some boulders included to keep people from entering. I can't believe the way people drive with such disrespect for other peoples property...running over trees, backing into fences. Its always neat to watch the big machinery remove and move trees around like it was nothing. Thank you for always bringing us along your journey.

[@alexiatychkowsky641]

I know you’ve probably seen them, but my greatest obsession this spring was the “Beauty of Moscow” lilac. The flower buds are pink, and they open to a bright white double flower but the pink gives the bush a soft blush that I cant get over. A fun fact that the locust made me think of was that Redwoods grow so old that they often have heart rot, but since the heartwood is non-living tissue it does not damage the tree, dnd since they’re so large it rarely threatens the structural integrity. In fact, when fires burn the damaged interior it creates valuable habitat for animals and the “caves” are usually so huge that even a bear could make a good home in one while the tree still lives.

[@janeclancey8044]

We lost two old oak trees to a lightning strike many years ago that thankfully did not damage our house. After removing the damaged trees, it opened the area from a shade garden around where the trees were to one which has more sun in the afternoon (west side of our house) some perennials and bushes needed to be moved, but we were grateful it was only the trees that were lost and no one was hurt in the lightning strike!

[@slavasha5285]

When we moved into our house, we had to remove 15 large trees. They were all dead or half-dead. But two years ago I started a new garden, and it makes me happy. The saddest thing is waiting for everything to grow. I hope to live long enough to enjoy the shade of new trees😍

[@janewasson4845]

Locust, when seasoned, is so pretty to burn in your fireplace! It creates blue flames and coals. Just be careful to use a firescreen, since it tends to pop. I know...we had to cut one down north of the house after an ice storm split it, and missed the good smelling white blossoms in the spring. It's hard to give up an old friend.

[@ladymacbaker]

You should have Aaron do an overhead shot that you can mark up so you can connect the different areas. So glad you had the extra tree, love the balance.

[@loisfarmer1261]

We had a couple of fruitless mulberry trees that we had to take down because of this type rot. They were in the front of our yard which faces west so we really miss them. They helped shade our entry.

[@shirlydejarnette]

I know that had to be hard to lose the Locust, but now you know what was killing it. The maples are so pretty and the new bed will be so much fun. Thanks for sharing...

[@eileenchang2173]

From a safety perspective, I have my arborist inspect all my mature trees every couple of years. I live in an urban area and there have been critical incidents where individuals who have been hurt (or worse) by fallen limbs from decaying trees. 🇨🇦

[@beth5765]

Oh Laura, this video is devastating to me. We have a giant oak that spans across the majority of our yard and over our small one room school house home. This year I’m noticing giant mushroom type structures around the base, almost woody type fungus. I’ve wondered if this indicates some kind of interior rot. This tree is likely over 150 years old and I love it so much. In fact we put off replacing the roof for a very long time out of fear of damaging the tree. We shall see what happens but I definitely have some research to do.

[@ninahannum1894]

Best of luck with your tree

[@wandabrown508]

So interesting to see all the steps & equipment involved in bringing the big tree down. Thank you for showing the internal rot to explain the cause of its demise.

[@JRP58]

Loosing a tree is always hard, but thank goodness you took it out before it could hurt someone or damage your house. I’m looking forward to watching you redesign the area. I love the addition of the tree by the gate.

[@barbaramccann7944]

I’ve been babying a lilac (only 18 years old, a retirement gift) for a few years and finally cut it down and dug out the stump this fall. Had an arborist here for another tree, who identified a bug that was causing its decline. I’m happy I pulled the trigger on this, and I’ve since redesigned and planted the area.

[@sc00badive]

I wish I was your neighbor, I'd love to watch all the new changes and smell the flowers, Iilacs have one of the best fragrances out there. I think my favorite videos are the ones where you're planting things. I live in the Asheville, NC area, we have trees down all over the area because of Hurricane Helene, there is a lot of gardening opportunities for everyone with a yard. The new gate area is going to be beautiful! You may need to plant some more maples "just in case".

[@camicri4263]

Good morning Laura, good morning everyone! Very sad to see the locust tree go but the relief of what could have happened in a storm. On the positive side of things that space opened up a lot and I think it's nice to see around a little bit. You can always put an umbrella by the fireplace and by the table. Honestly, I know that the lilac is full of buds but it would have been good to be gone so you have time to see the space without the 2 trees, much better perspective for you! I know Aaron is for it, I love lilacs it's my favorite tree in spring but the soil would have a bit of time to recoup over there. We didn't have a lot of trees around the house but 2 red buds that were beautiful with pink blooms but last year the fungus they had took over and they were horrible looking now that space it's empty and has now protection during the summer from the afternoon sun which is the most intense. My vegetable garden is in sun all day, it scorched my tomatoes and peppers on the west side. It was not a good place to be with no shade. Huge hugs for you Laura! This was a blessing in disguise! Blessings 💞🙏🏻💞🤗

[@christinawyckoff2164]

Love the trees and gate area it's going to be beautiful

[@melissabecker2550]

With the locust gone it really opens up all the beautiful views available that you really couldn't see before. Since it is so close to the house maybe you could do something for Aaron 😂 and build a dream outdoor kitchen and have a space for outdoor entertaining!

[@traciannveno]

You could have one or two of your favorite designers come in and collaborate for that kitchen area like you did for the ponds. Would be fun. What ever you do is always beautiful though.

[@BlackSwampSurvivor]

Laura, I know what you mean ab out delivery drivers. I have a new, much- cared -for lawn in front of my house, and yesterday a delivery driver drove right over it. And turned his wheels while on it! Left nice indented tracks. He had plenty of room in the driveway, so had no need to do this. Maddening!

[@cl5470]

Maybe they would care more if they got paid a livable wage...

[@dawnminnis3419]

Perhaps a huge directional sign for deliveries with arrows might help 😂 I am loving everything!❤

[@keoweedesigner5995]

I understand your keen sense of tree loss Laura. We lost our beloved signature 90'x90' White Oak to Hurricane Helene in September. The enormous gap left behind is beyond heartbreaking. To my utter dismay and horror, we are now losing all the mature shade loving shrubs once protected by the Oak 😢

[@beckycartledge9719]

😢 So sad!!

[@annehedlund7333]

So sad for you.

[@Krista-marieT]

Best neighbors ever

[@kiwigal8134]

All kudos to the tree company. So meticulous in their work👏💜

[@rickyt3961]

Thanks Laura! 👩🏻 looks great! 🌲🚜🪴

[@Gin0827]

Like your positive attitude Laura!

[@kaysauls9087]

Yes, I love that she can find the good in a sad situation in losing the locust tree. Seeing that the viburnum now has a chance to shine, seeing new ideas for how to use the area…and I know it made it easier in realizing the possibility that it could have fallen during one of their high winds.

[@BeesJungle]

Love all trees you have put in around your property! My question is, since you have so many new deciduous thin barked trees (lindens, maples, fruit trees), do you not need to wrap their trunks for winter? I live in zone 5 Colorado and is recommended to wrap newly planted trees for the first few years to prevent cracking as their bark thickens up.

[@barbaralamoreaux328]

The gate looks great. A low brick wall on either side might set it off nicely and help to prevent 😵‍💫 drivers from trying to go around it.

[@iartistdotme]

Kitchen garden!!!! So many people would love to see how to create one that is pretty to look at while being next to their kitchen. Even small home owners with small yards could use one of those and no one would make it prettier than you!

[@KokoraLife]

What a huge change for the garden!🌿

[@rosealvarado264]

Good morning all have a safe and blessed day ❤️

[@lindagage7315]

What a great job that company did! You will make it cozy again I'm sure! Well done

[@feat.selene]

I think converting the space into an herb garden would be wonderful. Having herbs, tomatoes or little fruits like strawberries, raspberries, etc or anything edible would be ideal especially being so close to the kitchen and the fire place. The kids wouldn't have to wander off so far when they want to pick some fruits! Also having them proactive on the "edible" garden would be such a fun project for them. Not that they lack any activity in your massive property already. Lol

[@eddye7764]

The entrance with the gates and two maples is AWESOME! When I was a kid one my brother’s favorite sci-fi movies was “2001: A Space Odyssey.” I think I literally heard the theme song for that movie when you showed the approach. Hey! Maybe Aaron can rig up the theme song to play when your guests arrive! 😆