removing 100's of small saplings and bushes

[IslandTractor]

I've just finished a similar project removing mostly "choke cherry" from about three acres. I've posted a photo of what we call choke cherry as there seems to be some discrepancy in identifying this species. Foreground trees are "choke cherry" after ripping.

I did it in three stages using different equipment. That last method, a tractor mounted backhoe with ripper combined with a grapple to move them was by far the most effective and fastest.

Mowing Choke Cherry is hopeless, they regrow and have extensive root networks. Digging them out with a grapple is feasible at the size you are describing (mine were actually more in the 4-8 inch range) and would work well if you have a good sized loader (2500lb lift or so). I started using a grapple with 1170lb lift FEL and that was too slow. A 2700lb lift loader was effective up to about three or four inches. I would initially push on the tree to expose the roots then slip the narrow grapple tines under and curl while driving forwards in low 4wd. Works well up to the size indicated but after that it takes too long as you need to push from different sides and work at it.

After I got a ripper for my backhoe things went very quickly. Choke cherry is easy to rip as the roots are soft and shallow. Two quick rips on either side of the trunk and then I could push the tree over either with the BH or grapple and cart it away. Again, that is for 4-12 inch size trees but you could do smaller ones too. They are so easy to rip out that I spent more time moving the tractor than ripping. If I had had an assistant to drive the tractor the rate limiting step would have been putting down the stabilizers.

 

[JohninCT]

You might want to consider something like a ratchet rake

Ratchet Rake, LLC - Tractor attachment, Bucket attachment, Loader, Skid loader, Kubota, Skid steer, Landscape rake, Brush remover, York Rake, Harley Rake, Rock Rake, Tractor rake attachment, Construction attachment, New Holland, Bobcat, Fire safety,

followed by a going over with box blade rippers or a subsoiler to help you pop out any remaining roots and rocks. Then keep ripping and dragging it until you get it smoothed out to your satisfaction.

 

[dfkrug]

If you can't burn it, and a big dozer scrapes too much dirt, I suggest
a 4-in-1 bucket. I am amazed at how well this works pulling saplings
and other brush. You get the root ball, too.

I come at the tree not quite straight on, so it goes inside the jaws from
one side or the other. Then I close the jaws around the trunk or
trunks. Sometimes a straight-up boom lift rips them right out. For
tougher trees, I curl the bucket and use leverage.

 

[Dave5264]

Good tips and ideas, thanks guys, lots for me to try out.

this really wont be "pasture" per say, but it will be a paddock.

 

[Redbug]

Don't worry Dave...We will give you lots of good advice to help you spend your money! And don't forget, you can drop a hint or two with Christmas coming on...

 

[TraderMark]

This thing worked so well for me that I've built one for the front of my Case 1845.
And yes, pics are coming next week on the new and improved "treegetter".

 

[CTW]

This is a great thread for a very common problem, BRUSH! I like seeing everyones ideas, this one always comes to mind:

Star Hill JAWZ

 

[IslandTractor]

This is a great thread for a very common problem, BRUSH! I like seeing everyones ideas, this one always comes to mind:

Star Hill JAWZ

Nice but $$$$ and it's effectiveness would largely depend on loader curl power. A grapple would be cheaper and more versatile.

 

[Redbug]

I did not know about Garlon! I'm glad you guys mentioned it...I have now read up on it...and learned about another method. That's great!

 

[Marveltone]

This thing worked so well for me that I've built one for the front of my Case 1845.
And yes, pics are coming next week on the new and improved "treegetter".

That looks awesome! I like the multiple teeth. They look like they can grab multiple saplings without having to stop. I may have to copy that design for myself, if you don't mind.

Joe