Cutting small trees and shrubs

[ch47dpilot]

I have about 20 acres of woods and would like to clear the underbrush. There are many mature trees I want to keep but about 75% of the woods are trees/brush ranging from 1/2" to 4" diameter. The brush hog works great on the areas that contain mainly small stuff that isn't dense. Even the small stuff that's densely packed seems to bog down the tractor even at slow speeds. I'm wondering if anyone has suggestions on how to cut the smaller stuff down. Iv'e tried a chainsaw but it was very time consuming and got awkward climbing all over the cut brush. I'd consider renting something but not sure what would be the best piece of equipment for this job. The land has some steeper hills so that would be of some concern. My end goal is to cut everything but the trees that are about 8 or greater. I want to get the 4" or less down now so I can see what I have and then selectively cut the more mature trees. I have a Kubota L3400 with a 5 brush hog, what is the largest diameter brush I should consider cutting without causing damage to the tractor or brush hog?

 

[buck12]

The single best tool I have bought for land clearing is a wildkat grabble. For small stuff it gets tree/bush roots and all.

 

[cat 297c]

I would suggest renting a mulcher but there pretty expensive to rent, would be cheaper to find the best mulching contractor in your area. If u rent one u have that expense then the wasted time of u trying to learn how to cut with it an make it look great. But the mulcher will be the way I would go.

 

[two_bit_score]

I'd recommend same as cat as far is getting it done quickly and then keeping it maintained with what you have.

But if you want to DIY then consider renting a skid street or ctl with a brush cutter attachment. Allow time for a learning curve if you haven't operated one before.

Be careful on slopes.


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