Areas served: Cary, NC and surrounding Wake County communities including Apex, Morrisville, and the Research Triangle region
Cary's tree canopy—defined by mature oaks, pines, and hardwoods across established neighborhoods like Preston, MacGregor Downs, and Amberly—drives steady demand for professional arboriculture. The town's strict tree protection ordinances and homeowner association standards mean residents frequently need certified arborists for permitting, preservation, and removal work. The local market includes 25 tree service providers with ratings ranging from 4.6 to 5.0 stars and Lantern Scores from 67.53 to 85.52 out of 100. Top providers like Raleigh Tree Service (85.52/100, 342 reviews) and Arborex Tree Services (85.37/100, 244 reviews) offer comprehensive services from routine pruning to emergency storm response, with several companies staffing ISA-certified arborists. Providers have been evaluated and compared using provider-verified credentials and independent research into service offerings, licensing, and customer feedback.
Raleigh Tree Service is a professional tree care company with over 20 years of experience serving the Triangle area. They provide comprehensive tree services including tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, emergency storm damage removal, and land clearing for both residential and commercial properties. Their team uses state-of-the-art equipment including cranes and bucket trucks to handle trees in tight spaces, and they offer 24/7 emergency service for storm-damaged trees.
Arborex Tree Services is a full-service tree care company serving the Raleigh area with expertise in tree removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding. The team handles emergency storm damage, large crane-assisted removals, and routine maintenance to keep properties safe and aesthetically maintained. They're licensed, insured, and committed to professional arboriculture standards.
Joshua Tree Experts in Raleigh-Cary is a locally-owned, full-service yard care company offering tree care, lawn treatments, and pest control. Led by franchise owner Hollin Wall, the team includes ISA-Certified Arborists and licensed pest specialists who provide comprehensive solutions including tree trimming and removal, deep root fertilizing, emergency tree cleanup, customized lawn care with fertilization and weed control, and indoor/outdoor pest management. They focus on making properties safe, healthy, and beautiful year-round with honest recommendations and reliable service from technicians who know the local area.
CS Tree Services Inc is a fully licensed and insured tree service company serving the Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill areas since 2003. They offer comprehensive tree services including removal, pruning, stump grinding, tree care, and commercial/industrial solutions. The owner-operated company employs ISA-certified arborists trained to ANSI A300 standards and uses high-powered equipment including cranes and aerial lifts to safely handle trees of all sizes.
NC Trees and More is a locally-owned tree service company serving the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill Triangle area with comprehensive arborist services including tree removal, pruning and trimming, 24/7 emergency tree service, stump grinding, shrub care, and plant health management. Led by ISA-certified arborists, they combine professional expertise with safety compliance (ANSI/OSHA standards) and a $2 million liability policy to handle complex tree work with minimal property impact. Their commitment to customer satisfaction, competitive pricing, and senior/military discounts has earned them a strong reputation across thousands of clients throughout North Carolina.
BroadLeaf Tree & Shrub is a locally owned, full-service tree care company in Durham, NC with over 50 years of combined industry experience. Led by certified arborists, they specialize in tree removal, tree pruning, shrub pruning, and plant health care services across the Triangle area. Their team prioritizes safety, meticulous attention to detail, and personalized service—with an owner overseeing each project from consultation through completion.
Lubbers & Sons Tree Care is a full-service tree care company serving Chapel Hill and central North Carolina with residential and commercial tree services. Led by ISA-certified arborists Tommy and Sosha Lubbers, they specialize in tree removal, pruning, health care, planting, hazard assessment, and emergency storm response. Their approach combines expert arboriculture with property respect—they prioritize tree health and longevity while protecting surrounding landscaping, offering clients detailed consultations and transparent pricing.
Green Leaves Tree Care Inc is a Durham-based tree service company specializing in tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, land clearing, and land leveling. Their team of certified arborists uses advanced equipment to handle everything from routine pruning to complex removals, with a strong commitment to safety, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. They also offer drainage services and site preparation work.
Lloyd's Tree Service is a locally owned, owner-operated family business in Raleigh with over 25 years of combined experience. They specialize in tree removal, tree trimming and pruning, stump grinding, emergency storm cleanup, crane-assisted removal, tree planting, shrub and hedge maintenance, and lawn care throughout Wake County and surrounding areas. Known for professional safety practices, free estimates, full insurance coverage, and rapid response times.
Perfect Project is a full-service outdoor property maintenance company based in Apex, NC, specializing in stump grinding, landscape services, junk removal, hauling, small demolition, lot clearing, and mini skid steer work throughout the Triangle area. They use low-impact equipment that fits through standard gates without lawn damage, grind stumps 4–24″ below grade, and handle everything from sod preparation to construction debris removal with complete site cleanup. The team is fully insured, offers competitive pricing with group discounts, and guarantees professional results and a clean finish on every project.
Allen Tree Service is a locally-owned tree care company serving the Cary area with comprehensive services including tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, and emergency storm cleanup. With certified arborists and modern equipment, they handle everything from routine maintenance to complex tree work requiring crane service. They're known for their professional approach, competitive pricing, and commitment to property safety.
Grateful Trees and Bees is a Durham-based tree service company founded in 2013 that offers comprehensive arboriculture and forestry services for residential and landowner clients. Led by Jacob, an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist and former forestry ranger, the company specializes in urban forestry (tree health assessments, custom pruning, removals, stump grinding), traditional forestry consulting and woodland stewardship, and specialized services like tree appraisals, pre-construction consults, firewood delivery, and beekeeping referrals. They're known for their hands-on craftsmanship approach, fair and sliding-scale pricing, expert knowledge, and commitment to tree health and environmental stewardship.
The Davey Tree Expert Company is a national tree care leader providing comprehensive arboriculture services to the Raleigh and Triangle area, including tree trimming, removal, stump grinding, and emergency storm response. With over 140 years of industry expertise, their certified arborists deliver professional tree health management and landscape preservation for residential and commercial properties. Their local Morrisville office is fully licensed and insured, offering free estimates and specialized equipment including crane-assisted removal for complex jobs.
A+ Tree & Crane Services is a full-service tree care company in Raleigh offering tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, and crane-assisted removal for residential and commercial properties. With over 15 years of experience, they provide emergency storm damage services and handle complex removals that require specialized equipment. The team is fully licensed and insured, committed to safe, professional tree care with free estimates for all projects.
Master Tree Service LLC is a fully licensed and insured tree service company serving the Holly Springs area and surrounding communities. They specialize in tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, and emergency storm damage cleanup, with expertise in safely handling trees of all sizes. With a commitment to professional service and customer satisfaction, they provide comprehensive arboriculture solutions for residential and commercial properties.
BG Tree Service, LLC is a fully licensed and insured tree care company serving the Cary area and surrounding Triangle region. They provide comprehensive tree services including removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding for both residential and commercial properties. With a strong reputation for safety, professionalism, and attention to detail, BG Tree Service is committed to maintaining the health and appearance of trees while protecting property.
Jackson's Tree Service, LLC is a family-owned and operated tree care company serving the Raleigh area and surrounding communities since 1984. With over 35 years of experience and a six-person crew, they provide comprehensive tree services including removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, emergency storm damage removal, and crane-assisted services for both residential and commercial customers. They're known for free estimates, prompt and safe work, and strong community ties built on prioritizing customer needs.
J&D Tree Pros is a family-owned, full-service tree company in Apex, NC specializing in tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, and emergency tree services throughout the Triangle area. They own their own fleet of cranes (including 90-ton and 110-ton equipment) operated by NCCO-certified professionals, allowing them to handle high-risk removals with minimal property damage. Fully licensed and insured with 24/7 emergency availability, they combine advanced equipment with experienced arborists to provide comprehensive tree care for both residential and commercial properties.
ArborMax Tree Service is a Raleigh-based tree care company specializing in tree removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding for residential and commercial properties. The team handles emergency storm damage cleanup and hazard tree removal, with fully licensed and insured technicians committed to safe, professional service. They offer free estimates and serve the greater Raleigh area with expertise in all aspects of tree maintenance and removal.
Leaf & Limb is a full-service tree care company serving the Raleigh area with expertise in tree removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding. The company handles routine maintenance and emergency storm cleanup, combining skilled arborists with professional equipment to keep properties safe and healthy. They're known for reliable service and attention to detail in every job they complete.
Ashland Tree Service is a full-service tree care company serving the Raleigh area with expertise in tree removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding. They handle both routine maintenance and emergency storm damage situations, backed by licensed and insured professionals. With a strong reputation for reliable service, they're the go-to choice for residential and commercial property owners needing comprehensive arboriculture work.
Mr. Mendez Tree Service is a locally-owned tree care company serving the Raleigh area with comprehensive services including tree removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding. Led by experienced arborists, the company specializes in both routine maintenance and emergency storm damage removal, handling everything from small residential jobs to larger-scale projects. They're known for professional workmanship, competitive pricing, and reliable service to homeowners throughout the Triangle region.
Bartlett Tree Experts is a professional arboriculture company serving Raleigh and surrounding areas with comprehensive tree care services including removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding. As a nationally recognized leader in tree care backed by decades of expertise, they employ certified arborists who assess tree health and provide specialized solutions for both residential and commercial properties. Their focus on proper arboricultural practices ensures healthy trees and safe removal when needed.
Triangle Tree Pros is a full-service tree care company serving the Raleigh area with expertise in tree removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding. Their licensed and insured team handles both routine maintenance and emergency storm damage cleanup, using professional equipment and safe practices to protect your property.
Cary Trees is a licensed and certified arborist team providing comprehensive tree services to residential and commercial clients throughout the Cary area. They specialize in tree removal, pruning, trimming, stump grinding, and emergency storm response, using modern equipment and eco-friendly practices. Their experienced professionals focus on tree health assessment, safety, and customer satisfaction, offering 24/7 emergency services and free estimates.
Raleigh Tree Service ranks #1 with a Lantern Score of 85.52/100, 5 stars, and 342 reviews. With over 20 years of experience serving the Triangle area, they provide comprehensive services including tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, and emergency storm cleanup. They're particularly distinguished for handling hazardous trees, land clearing for property developers, and serving both residential and commercial clients throughout Cary, Raleigh, and Durham.
Several providers employ ISA-certified arborists including Joshua Tree Experts (#3, 85.26/100), which specifically notes ISA-certified staff; NC Trees and More (#5, 84.72/100), which advertises ISA certification; Lubbers & Sons Tree Care (#6, 84.71/100), led by certified arborists Tommy and Sosh; and BroadLeaf Tree and Shrub (#7, 84.70/100), which has certified arborists with over 50 years of combined experience. ISA certification indicates advanced training in arboriculture, tree biology, and proper care techniques.
Multiple providers offer emergency services for storm damage and hazardous tree situations. NC Trees and More (#5, 84.72/100) specifically advertises 24/7 emergency service. Other companies with emergency capabilities include Raleigh Tree Service (#1), Arborex Tree Services (#2), CS Tree Services (#4), Lloyd's Tree Service (#9), Allen Tree Service (#11), and J&D Tree Pros (#18). Given Cary's vulnerability to tropical storms and hurricanes moving inland, emergency response capacity is a critical consideration for homeowners.
Experience levels vary significantly. Raleigh Tree Service (#1) has over 20 years of experience. CS Tree Services (#4) has been operating since 2003, giving them over 20 years in the market. Jackson's Tree Service (#17) has the longest documented tenure, serving the Raleigh area since 1984—nearly 40 years. Lloyd's Tree Service (#9) has over 25 years of combined experience. Grateful Trees and Bees (#12) was founded in 2013, making them a newer but well-reviewed option with a certified arborist leader.
A+ Tree & Crane Services (#14, 82.07/100, 339 reviews) specifically names crane services in their business identity and offers crane-assisted removal for large or hazardous trees. J&D Tree Pros (#18, 80.31/100, 308 reviews) also advertises crane service capabilities. Crane-assisted removal is essential for large trees near homes or power lines, trees in tight spaces, or situations where traditional rigging would be unsafe or damage property.
None of the 25 listed providers have documented weekend hours in their profiles. However, many tree service companies schedule work on weekends even if office hours are weekday-only, and emergency services are typically available 24/7 regardless of the day. Homeowners should contact providers directly to confirm weekend availability, as tree work is often scheduled based on crew availability and weather rather than fixed business hours.
Cary has strict tree protection ordinances, especially for Heritage Trees (trees 24+ inches in diameter). Permits are generally required to remove protected trees on residential property, and violations can result in significant fines. Trees in Resource Conservation Districts or those meeting certain size thresholds require evaluation and permitting through the town's Planning Department. Many homeowner associations also have their own tree removal policies. Working with providers like Joshua Tree Experts or BroadLeaf Tree & Shrub, which employ certified arborists familiar with local regulations, can help navigate the permitting process and ensure compliance.
While often used interchangeably, trimming typically refers to cutting back overgrown branches for aesthetic purposes, clearance from structures, or improving light penetration. Pruning is a more targeted practice focused on tree health—removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches; correcting structural issues; and promoting proper growth patterns. ISA-certified arborists like those at Lubbers & Sons or Grateful Trees and Bees can assess whether your tree needs health-focused pruning or primarily aesthetic trimming, which affects both technique and timing.
Warning signs include dead or hanging branches, visible decay or cavities in the trunk, fungal growth at the base, significant lean (especially if recent), root damage from construction, or large cracks in the trunk or major limbs. Trees with multiple trunks, co-dominant stems, or poor branch attachment are structurally vulnerable. After severe weather, look for soil heaving around roots or new cracks. A certified arborist can perform a risk assessment considering tree condition, target (what it could hit if it fails), and likelihood of failure. In Cary's established neighborhoods with homes close to mature trees, professional evaluation is critical for liability and safety.
Most companies grind stumps to below-grade level and chip branches for mulch. Trunk wood is typically cut into manageable sections—some providers will leave firewood on-site if requested, while others haul everything away. Companies like NC Trees and More or Lloyd's Tree Service can discuss wood disposal options during estimates. Some homeowners keep wood for firewood or milling, while others prefer complete removal and cleanup. Large hardwoods like oak can have value for lumber, though residential tree removal rarely produces mill-quality logs due to nails, hardware, or interior defects.
Yes, especially for expensive removals or complex jobs. Tree work pricing varies based on tree size, location, access, rigging difficulty, disposal, and company overhead. Compare not just price but credentials (ISA certification, insurance, licensing), methodology, equipment, and what's included (stump grinding, cleanup, hauling). The cheapest bid may cut corners on safety or insurance. For significant work, consider getting 3-4 estimates from providers like Raleigh Tree Service, Arborex, CS Tree Services, or BroadLeaf—all top-ranked with strong review histories. A certified arborist may cost more but can prevent costly mistakes.
Timing depends on species and objective. Late winter (January-March) is ideal for most deciduous trees—wounds close quickly as growth begins, disease pressure is low, and structure is visible without leaves. Avoid heavy pruning in late summer/early fall, which can stimulate growth that won't harden before winter. Oak trees should be pruned in winter to minimize oak wilt risk. Dead or hazardous branches can be removed anytime. Storm damage requires immediate response. ISA-certified arborists at companies like Joshua Tree Experts or Grateful Trees and Bees can recommend species-specific timing based on your trees' health and the pruning goals.
Legitimate tree services must carry general liability insurance (typically $1-2 million minimum) covering property damage and bodily injury, plus workers' compensation insurance for employees. Tree work is one of the most dangerous jobs—companies without workers' comp may try to hold homeowners liable if a worker is injured. Ask for certificates of insurance and verify coverage is current. All top-ranked providers in this directory (Raleigh Tree Service, Arborex, CS Tree Services, etc.) advertise being licensed and insured. Never hire uninsured tree workers regardless of price—the liability risk far exceeds any savings.
Tree roots rarely break intact foundations, but they can exploit existing cracks and worsen foundation problems, particularly on clay soils common in the Triangle region. Roots seek moisture—during drought, they can dry out clay soils causing foundation settlement. Large trees like oaks, willows, or poplars planted too close to homes (within 10-20 feet depending on species) pose the highest risk. Prevention is easier than cure: plant appropriately sized trees at proper distances, maintain consistent soil moisture, and install root barriers if needed. If you suspect root damage, consult both a certified arborist and a structural engineer to determine whether tree removal is necessary or if less drastic solutions exist.
Standard stump grinding removes the stump to 6-12 inches below grade, allowing grass or landscaping over the area. The grinder creates wood chips, which most companies either haul away or leave for the homeowner to use as mulch. Grinding doesn't remove all roots—large lateral roots gradually decay underground. Some providers like Perfect Project Stump Grinding & Yard Services (#10) specialize in stump work and may offer deeper grinding or root removal for an additional fee. Confirm what depth is included, whether grinding includes surface roots, what happens to the chips, and if backfill soil is provided. Many tree removal contracts don't include stump grinding—it's often a separate line item.