I am having 2.5 acres of woods on my property cleared for future pasture. I am in central NC and the wooded area has a mix of pine and hardwoods. The company I am having clear the land will push trees to get all the stumps and then burn the debris. I have never cleared land before and not sure what to expect. What should I expect from the land clearing guys? Do you think it will be possible to save some of the hardwoods for shade? Or will all land disturbance ruin the roots too much? When is it best to seed? I am thinking about 2 years for actual pasture land. Does that sound accurate? Any other tips? Expectations?
Get them to roll the stumps to get as much of the dirt off as possible. 2 years with really good luck. I tried to keep some trees, but they are all gone now thanks to several hurricanes. Trees that were once protected from strong winds by surrounding trees, are not long for this world when left standing by themselves.
I’m sure they would work with you. I know some outfits just tell you to get some flagging and wrap it around the tree(s) you want to save. Be very clear with them that flagging means KEEP, not REMOVE. The company might request you use a certain color of flagging as well.
Tom King’s observation makes me think you should select a grouping of trees to save, rather than a single tree.
We cleared about 6 acres, mostly pines, but a few hardwoods. I requested the hardwoods be left (all they wanted was the pine anyway). Had the pines pushed over, and the roots were moved to a big burn pile. We eventually burned the piles and then had what was left trucked away.
The hardwoods that we lost eventually were lost due to a hurricane. I thought we’d lose some from damage to the root system, but we lucked out. As best I can recall, it took maybe 2 years to get the grass established. We have a lot of clay, and not much sand (just north of Fayetteville), so with better soil you may have better luck.
Save trees in groups, or if adjacent to woods, you can make from for the fence and save some on the edge.
Clean as mush dirt as possible from the stumps.
Truck away what doesn’t burn. Don’t let them bury the ash pile. You will find it 2-4 years later.
Be prepared to have to rake away roots and rocks (depending on area).
I agree 2 years is a good target, but depending on weather, you may need more time.
Get a soil sample and lime and fertilize accordingly.
