Question 1

Is cedar or mesquite harder to remove?

Accepted Answer

Mesquite is harder to permanently remove. While cedar (Ashe juniper) looks dense and intimidating, it dies when cut below its lowest living branch and doesn't regrow from roots. Mesquite, however, has an aggressive root system that can regrow even from small root fragments. Mesquite removal often requires root grubbing or herbicide treatment in addition to cutting/mulching to achieve permanent control.

Question 2

Why does mesquite removal cost more than cedar removal?

Accepted Answer

Mesquite removal costs 30-50% more because: 1) The root system must be addressed to prevent regrowth - just cutting isn't enough; 2) Root grubbing or chemical treatment adds time and cost; 3) Mesquite wood is very hard, causing more equipment wear; 4) Follow-up treatments may be needed. Cedar, by contrast, is a single-treatment removal - mulch it once and it's gone.

Question 3

Which tree uses more water - cedar or mesquite?

Accepted Answer

Both are heavy water users, but mesquite can access water deeper. A mature cedar (Ashe juniper) uses 35+ gallons daily and its shallow roots intercept rainfall before it reaches aquifers. Mature mesquite can use 50+ gallons daily with taproots reaching 60+ feet to access deep groundwater. Removing either significantly increases water availability for grass and desired vegetation.

Question 4

Can forestry mulching kill mesquite permanently?

Accepted Answer

Forestry mulching alone typically won't permanently kill mesquite. While it effectively removes the aboveground growth, mesquite will regrow from its extensive root system. For permanent mesquite control, you need either: 1) Root grubbing to remove the root crown; 2) Stump treatment with herbicide after cutting; 3) Ongoing monitoring and treatment of regrowth. Mulching is still valuable as the first step.

Question 5

Why does cedar removal help Texas water supplies?

Accepted Answer

Cedar (Ashe juniper) dramatically reduces aquifer recharge. Its dense canopy intercepts rainfall (up to 50%), its shallow roots quickly absorb water, and its leaf litter repels water infiltration. Studies show springs re-emerging and stream flow increasing after cedar clearing. The Edwards Aquifer region particularly benefits - removing cedar literally brings back water to creeks and wells.

Question 6

How do I prevent cedar and mesquite from coming back?

Accepted Answer

For cedar: Removal is usually permanent if cut below the lowest green branch. Monitor for seedlings and remove young cedar while small. For mesquite: Much more challenging. Options include: 1) Root grubbing during initial clearing; 2) Herbicide treatment of cut stumps (Remedy/Triclopyr); 3) Regular monitoring and treatment of regrowth; 4) Prescribed burning can help if done properly. Mesquite management is ongoing.

Question 7

Which should I remove first - cedar or mesquite?

Accepted Answer

Prioritize based on your goals: Remove CEDAR first if: you want immediate water recovery, fire risk reduction, or allergy relief. Cedar responds dramatically to one-time clearing. Remove MESQUITE first if: it's rapidly spreading on your property and you're prepared for ongoing management. Since mesquite requires follow-up care, start when you can commit to the full process.

Question 8

Can I sell the cedar or mesquite wood after clearing?

Accepted Answer

Mesquite wood has significant value - it's prized for BBQ smoking, furniture, and flooring. You may be able to offset removal costs by selling mesquite logs. Cedar (juniper) has minimal commercial value in most areas - it's too small and knotty for lumber. Some cedar is used for fence posts or mulch, but don't expect it to offset costs. Consider mesquite's wood value when planning removal.

Factor	Cedar (Ashe Juniper)	Mesquite
Common Names	Ashe Juniper, Mountain Cedar, Cedar Brake	Honey Mesquite, Texas Mesquite
Primary Texas Region	Hill Country, Edwards Plateau, Central Texas	South Texas, West Texas, North Texas rangelands
Typical Removal Cost	$1,500 - $3,500 per acre	$2,000 - $5,000 per acre
Best Removal Method	Forestry mulching (highly effective)	Root grubbing + mulching (root kill required)
Regrowth Tendency	Low - killed when cut below lowest branch	High - resprouts aggressively from roots
Root System	Shallow, fibrous roots	Extremely deep taproot (60+ feet)
Water Consumption	35+ gallons per day per tree	50+ gallons per day per mature tree
Removal Difficulty	Moderate - straightforward mulching	High - requires root treatment
Post-Clearing Care	Minimal - monitor for seedlings	Ongoing - watch for regrowth, treat stumps
Fire Hazard	Extreme - highly flammable oils	Moderate - less volatile
Allergy Impact	Severe - "Cedar Fever" affects millions	Minimal - not a significant allergen
Wood Value	Low - minimal commercial value	High - prized for BBQ, furniture

Cedar Removal vs Mesquite RemovalTexas's Two Biggest Brush Challenges

🌲 Cedar (Ashe Juniper)

🌳 Mesquite

The Critical Difference

Complete Comparison

Common Names

Primary Texas Region

Typical Removal Cost

Best Removal Method

Regrowth Tendency

Root System

Water Consumption

Removal Difficulty

Post-Clearing Care

Fire Hazard

Allergy Impact

Wood Value

Best Removal Methods

Cedar Removal Strategy

Recommended Method:

Cost Range:

Post-Removal Care:

Mesquite Removal Strategy

Recommended Method:

Cost Range:

Post-Removal Care:

Where Each Species Dominates

Cedar Territory

Mesquite Territory

Frequently Asked Questions

What Our Customers Say

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Cedar, Mesquite, or Both? We Handle It All