Crown thinning is the sensitive removal of a selected proportion of secondary and small live branch growth throughout the crown. This does not affect the overall size of the crown but allows more air and light into and throughout the canopy and reduces the weight on heavy limbs. Thinning the crown will also allow strong winds to pass through with less resistance on the canopy, therefore less risk of damage. This process has a significant impact on the life span of more mature trees.

We are often asked to carry out crown reduction. In many cases, this technique can allow the further conservation of trees where structural problems might otherwise lead to the loss of a valuable tree.

Pollarding techniques are usually used when the crown of a deciduous tree has grown too large for its location. It may also be used in cases where severe defects/weaknesses are making the tree unstable. When executed correctly, this technique can allow for quick re-growth of the subject tree. Before any work is carried out, we will discuss all aspects of the service with the client as required.

Dead wooding is where we remove any dying/broken branches and possible diseased wood. This can significantly improve the overall health of the tree and is very important for both conservation and public safety whether the tree is in a private garden or next to a busy footpath or road.

Sometimes it is necessary to remove certain branches from the crown of a tree, without fully reducing, thinning or lifting the crown. For example, if a large branch or a number of branches have travelled over a neighbouring boundary, it may be required that the limbs are reduced back to the boundary, or where a limb may be fractured through storm damage but still connected to the tree. This process generally involves removing as little live growth as possible to ensure the health and stability of the tree.

To encourage early crown formation in younger trees, we often carry out small tasks such as formative and cultural pruning. Removing overlapping and badly developed branches heightens the overall safety and long-term health of the tree.

Sometimes the condition of a tree can be so insecure, that a complete removal becomes the necessary option. If a good area of clear ground is available, then we can control the overall direction of falling trees using various winching techniques. In some cases, however, very little space is available, and neither of the above techniques can be used, then we would simply dismantle the tree in a controlled, safe manner using climbers and lowering equipment to reduce any risk of damage to surrounding property etc.

Contact us now for your free initial visit to assess your garden and discuss the options available. We will be more than happy to assist you in making the right choices when it comes to managing your trees.