Saguaro Cactus Removal

The distinctive saguaro cactus is a fixture of the American Southwest and an identifiable aspect of life in the East Valley. It is the largest cactus in the United States and the second-largest cactus in the world. The saguaro cactus, which can grow to be up to 70 feet tall in some situations, is a monster amid the smaller desert trees and plants that flourish in Arizona. Unfortunately, in Phoenix, elderly and decaying saguaro cactus can be a threat. However, before you consider removing that dying saguaro cactus from your home or business, make sure you’re aware of the regulations that safeguard these valuable native species.

Protecting the Saguaro The Arizona Native Plant Law protects native plants in the state.

Arizona is home to over 3,000 species of flowering plants and ferns, many of which are legally protected. The Arizona Native Plant Law, which includes cactus, was designed to conserve uncommon and culturally significant plant species. Desert plants are protected from theft, vandalism, and “unnecessary destruction” (i.e., removal) on all lands under the legislation.

Under the Arizona Native Plant Law, there are four types of protected plants, including “Highly Safeguarded” species. These plants, including saguaro cactus, are endangered or threatened with extinction. The cactus, as well as its fruits, seeds, and cuttings, are protected by the Arizona Native Plant Law.

A huge cactus, such as the Saguaro Cactus, may usually add attractiveness and value to your home. If left unchecked, these cacti can grow extremely huge, with roots that spread out in every direction in quest of water. The Saguaro Cacti will overrun their root system as they develop in size. The cactus will begin to lean and may tumble over at any time if this occurs. This exposes them to sickness or infection, both of which harm the cactus from within.

The last thing you want to happen is for your giant cactus to fall on your house or automobile. These are a few of the most common reasons that homeowners and business owners remove huge cactus from their properties.

Any scene is enhanced by the presence of the Saguaro. They can live for more than 150 years and reach great heights. The taller Saguaro cactus grow at a rate of around an inch each year, implying that they are decades old. When these cacti grow too quickly or are not properly supported, they become dangerous and must be destroyed to prevent property damage.

Getting Rid of a Saguaro in Your Home or Business

The following is taken from the Arizona Department of Agriculture’s webpage about landowners’ rights: Landowners have the right to destroy or remove plants growing on their property, but they must notify the Department 20 to 60 days before destroying any protected native plants. Any plant growing on the land has the right to be sold or given away by the landowner. Protected native plants, on the other hand, cannot be legally held, taken, or transferred without a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture.

When it comes to removing saguaros, should you do it yourself or hire a professional?

There is no requirement that you engage a professional cactus removal firm to complete the task. Of course, this does not imply that you should do it yourself.

Here are some of the most compelling reasons to have a saguaro cactus removed from your property by a professional:

Why Saguaro cactus removal is hazardous – Saguaro cacti are the world’s second largest cactus species. They’re very tall and heavy (between 3,200 and 4,800 pounds when fully hydrated), and the sharp spines can harbor bacteria and fungi that can cause diseases if penetrated.
Saguaro cactus removal can be difficult – How can you get a large saguaro cactus out of your yard? Excavating and destroying a saguaro cactus can be difficult without the correct equipment (and even with it), because they have numerous “stalks” inside, and you may not know which way the cactus will fall if you have never chopped one down before.
Removing a saguaro cactus is difficult — Removing a saguaro cactus isn’t your typical landscaping project. Shovels, ropes, pulleys, chainsaws, and sometimes even heavier equipment like tractors and backhoes are used in this backbreaking task. Even if you have the extra hands and manpower to assist, hiring a professional is the most convenient option.

How much does it cost to get rid of a cactus?

Cactus removal costs around $1,400 on average. In 2021, the prices varied from $310 to $2500. The cost of the cactus is determined by its location and size. How much does it cost to remove a saguaro cactus? The removal of a large saguaro cactus might cost up to $2,500.