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Should you Remove Deadwood on a Tree?

Deadwood is a natural part of a tree’s life cycle, but that does not always mean it should be left alone. In some cases, dead branches can create safety risks, encourage decay, or affect the overall health and appearance of a tree.

So, should you remove deadwood on a tree? In most situations, the answer is yes — especially where safety, tree health, or property protection are concerned.

What Is Deadwood?

Deadwood refers to branches or limbs that have died and are no longer producing leaves or growth. These branches can vary in size from small twigs to large limbs high in the canopy.

There are several reasons why branches die, including:

  • Natural ageing
  • Storm damage
  • Disease or pest problems
  • Lack of sunlight within the canopy
  • Drought or environmental stress

Some deadwood is completely normal, particularly on mature trees. However, excessive deadwood can sometimes indicate underlying health issues.

Why Remove Deadwood?

Safety

One of the main reasons for deadwood removal is safety. Dead branches become brittle over time and are more likely to snap and fall, especially during strong winds or bad weather.

Falling branches can potentially damage:

  • Vehicles
  • Buildings
  • Fences
  • Footpaths
  • Gardens
  • Power lines

More importantly, they can pose a serious risk to people using the area beneath the tree.

Trees located near roads, public spaces, schools, gardens, or driveways should be inspected regularly for deadwood.

Tree Health

Removing dead branches can also benefit the tree itself. Deadwood can sometimes provide entry points for fungi, decay, and pests, particularly if branches have fractured or split.

Carefully removing dead material allows arborists to inspect the tree properly and helps maintain a healthier tree structure.

Appearance

Dead branches can make a tree look neglected or unhealthy. Deadwooding helps improve the overall appearance of a tree while maintaining its natural shape.

For commercial properties, public spaces, and well-maintained gardens, this can make a noticeable difference.

Is All Deadwood Bad?

Not necessarily.

In woodland settings or large natural areas, deadwood can provide valuable habitats for birds, insects, and wildlife. Standing deadwood is an important part of many ecosystems.

The decision to remove deadwood depends on several factors, including:

  • The location of the tree
  • The size of the dead branches
  • The level of risk
  • The condition of the tree overall
  • Wildlife considerations

In some cases, only hazardous dead branches need removing, while non-dangerous dead branches can be retained for ecological value.

When Should Deadwood Be Removed?

Deadwood can generally be removed at any time of year, although timing may vary depending on the tree species and surrounding wildlife activity.

It is a good idea to arrange an inspection if you notice:

  • Large dead branches
  • Branches falling regularly
  • Cracks or splits
  • Fungal growth
  • A thinning canopy
  • Dead branches overhanging roads, buildings, or gardens

After storms or high winds, trees should also be checked for newly damaged or hanging limbs.

Can You Remove Deadwood Yourself?

Small dead branches on young trees may be manageable with the correct tools and knowledge. However, larger deadwood removal can be dangerous, particularly at height or near buildings and roads.

Professional arborists have the training and equipment to:

  • Assess tree condition safely
  • Identify hidden decay or defects
  • Carry out pruning correctly
  • Avoid unnecessary damage to the tree
  • Work safely at height

Incorrect pruning can sometimes cause more harm than good, so professional advice is always recommended for mature or high-risk trees.

Professional Tree Surgery Services

Deadwooding is a common part of professional tree maintenance and can help improve safety, appearance, and long-term tree management.

A qualified arborist such as our team at Simpson Arboriculture can assess whether deadwood removal is necessary and recommend the most suitable approach for your tree and location.

If you are concerned about dead branches on your trees, get in touch with us at Simpson Arboriculture. We would be happy to discuss your needs and arrange a free quotation.

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Who Is Responsible for Trees on Boundary Lines?

Trees can sometimes become a source of confusion between neighbours, especially when branches stretch across fences, leaves fall into nearby gardens, or a tree sits directly on a boundary line. One of the most common questions we’re asked is: who is actually responsible for the tree?

While every situation can be slightly different, there are some general rules that can help homeowners understand their responsibilities and rights when it comes to boundary trees.

What Is a Boundary Tree?

A boundary tree is usually a tree whose trunk sits directly on, or very close to, the boundary line between two properties.

In most cases, responsibility depends on where the main trunk is located:

  • If the trunk is entirely within one property, the tree usually belongs to that property owner.
  • If the trunk straddles the boundary line, the tree may be considered jointly owned by both neighbours.

This can sometimes make decisions around maintenance, pruning or removal more complicated, particularly if both parties have different opinions on what should happen.

Who Is Responsible for Maintenance?

Generally, the owner of the tree is responsible for its maintenance and overall condition.

This includes:

  • Managing the health and safety of the tree
  • Arranging inspections if there are concerns
  • Carrying out any necessary pruning or maintenance work
  • Ensuring the tree does not present an unreasonable risk

If a tree is jointly owned, both neighbours may share responsibility for decisions and costs.

Can You Cut Back Branches Overhanging Your Property?

Under UK common law, a property owner is usually entitled to prune branches or roots that cross into their property boundary. This is often referred to as the “right to abate”.

However, there are some important points to remember:

  • You can only cut back to the boundary line
  • Work should not damage or destabilise the tree
  • You remain responsible for arranging and paying for the work on your side
  • Any cuttings technically still belong to the tree owner and should be offered back to them

It is always sensible to speak with your neighbour before any work is carried out, even where you may legally be entitled to do it.

What About Dangerous Trees?

If a tree appears unsafe, diseased or storm damaged, it is important to act quickly.

The tree owner may be responsible if they were aware — or reasonably should have been aware — that the tree posed a risk and failed to take appropriate action.

Signs that may indicate a problem include:

  • Large dead branches
  • Cracks or splits in the trunk
  • Sudden leaning
  • Fungal growth around the base
  • Significant storm damage

A qualified arborist can inspect the tree and provide professional advice on its condition and any recommended work.

Trees in Conservation Areas or Protected by TPOs

Before carrying out any tree work, it is important to check whether the tree is protected.

Some trees are covered by:

  • Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
  • Conservation Area restrictions

In these cases, permission from the local authority may be required before pruning or removal can take place — even if the branches extend into your property.

Our Advice: Keep Communication Friendly

Boundary trees can easily become a source of tension between neighbours, particularly when there are concerns about shade, debris, blocked gutters or property damage.

At the end of the day, most situations are best resolved through open and friendly communication. We always encourage customers to have a conversation with their neighbours first and try to reach an amicable agreement wherever possible.

As tree surgeons, our role is to provide professional advice on the condition and management of trees. Clear communication and a practical approach usually lead to the best outcome for everyone involved.

Need Professional Tree Advice?

If you’re unsure about the condition of a boundary tree or would like professional guidance on suitable maintenance work, our team is always happy to help.

We can assess tree health, advise on safe and appropriate pruning, and help ensure any work is carried out professionally and in line with current regulations.

To find out more, you can get in touch with us via our website. Our friendly team would be happy to discuss the work with you and answer any questions you may have.

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How to store firewood for maximum efficiency

If you rely on firewood for heating or enjoy cosy fires during the colder months, proper storage is key to ensuring it burns efficiently. Wet or improperly stored wood can be difficult to light, produce excessive smoke, and generate less heat.

So how do you store firewood for maximum efficiency? Below, we have provided some useful tips for storing firewood correctly, and getting the best performance out of your logs.

1. Choose the right firewood

Before storing your firewood, make sure you’re using high-quality logs. Hardwood species like oak, ash, and beech burn longer and hotter than softwoods like pine, which burn quickly and produce more creosote (a sticky, flammable residue).

Kiln-dried or well-seasoned wood with a moisture content below 20% is ideal for clean and efficient burning.

At Simpson Arboriculture, all our logs are kiln-dried, hardwood and are Ready to Burn approved.

2. Keep firewood dry and well-ventilated

Moisture is the biggest enemy of firewood. To keep your logs dry:

  • Stack wood off the ground – Use a pallet, bricks, or a firewood rack to prevent dampness from the soil.
  • Allow air circulation – Stack logs in a way that lets air flow through, helping to dry the wood further.
  • Cover the top, but leave the sides open – A simple tarp, roof, or firewood shelter will protect from rain, while open sides allow moisture to escape.

3. Store firewood in the right location 

  • Outside storage – Firewood should be stored outdoors rather than inside the home or garage to prevent insect infestations and mould.
  • Avoid stacking against walls – Leave a gap between the firewood and any walls or fences to improve airflow and reduce the risk of rot.
  • South-facing locations – If possible, store firewood in a sunny, breezy area to speed up drying.

4. Rotate your stock

Use the first in, first out method to ensure you’re always burning the driest wood. Stack new firewood behind or next to older, drier wood so that the most seasoned logs are used first.

5. Keep pests away

Woodpiles can attract insects and rodents, so:

  • Store wood at least a few feet away from your home to prevent pests from moving indoors.
  • Avoid stacking directly on the ground to keep bugs and moisture at bay.
  • Don’t spray wood with pesticides—burning treated wood can release harmful chemicals.

6. Season your own firewood

If you’re cutting and drying your own firewood:

  • Split logs into smaller pieces to speed up drying.
  • Stack wood in single rows for maximum exposure to air and sun.
  • Let wood season for at least 6-12 months, depending on the type of wood.

7. Test firewood before burning

To check if your firewood is ready to burn:

  • Look for cracks – Well-seasoned wood often has visible cracks at the ends.
  • Listen to the sound – Dry logs produce a sharp, hollow sound when knocked together, while wet wood makes a dull thud.
  • Use a moisture meter – A simple moisture meter will confirm if your wood is below 20% moisture content.

Firewood: Time to get stocked up

Proper firewood storage ensures your logs are dry, efficient and ready to burn when you need them. Whether you’re heating your home or enjoying a firepit outdoors, following these storage tips will help you get the most heat and longest burn time from your wood.

Need high-quality kiln-dried firewood? Get in touch with us for high-quality, Ready to Burn logs. These are available all year round and are delivered for free within 10 miles of Ancaster. For more information or to place an order, please visit our online log store.

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Can I prune my neighbour’s tree?

Overhanging branches, blocked light and falling leaves creeping into your garden can all lead to one common question: Can I prune my neighbour’s tree?

The short answer is yes — in some circumstances. However, there are important legal considerations, neighbourly etiquette and tree protection laws to be aware of before organising for any work to be carried out.

Here’s what homeowners in the UK should know.

Can I cut back branches hanging over my property?

In the UK, you generally have the legal right to cut back branches or roots from a neighbour’s tree if they cross over your property boundary. This is known as your “right to abate a nuisance”.

However, there are a few important conditions:

  • You can only cut back to the boundary line
  • You must not go onto your neighbour’s property without permission
  • You should avoid causing unnecessary damage to the tree
  • You remain responsible for carrying out the work safely

We would always recommend contacting a qualified tree surgeon to carry out any pruning work, to ensure that the pruning supports the health of the tree, and that work is completed to a high standard.

Who owns the cut branches?

Legally, any branches, fruit or cuttings removed from the tree still belong to the tree owner — your neighbour.

It is considered good practice to offer the cuttings back to them rather than simply disposing of them. In reality, many neighbours will not want them, but offering first helps avoid unnecessary disputes.

Should I speak to my neighbour first?

Absolutely.

Even if you are legally entitled to prune the overhanging growth, a friendly conversation beforehand can prevent misunderstandings and maintain good relationships.

Your neighbour may:

  • Already be planning work on the tree
  • Prefer to arrange professional pruning themselves
  • Be unaware the tree is causing an issue

Approaching the situation politely often leads to the best outcome for everyone involved.

What If the tree has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?

If the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or located within a conservation area, permission from the local authority may be required before any pruning work takes place — even if the branches extend into your garden.

Carrying out unauthorised work on a protected tree can lead to significant fines.

If you are unsure whether a tree is protected, your local council or a professional arborist can help check before work begins.

What if the tree is dangerous?

If a neighbour’s tree appears unsafe or is causing damage, it is best to raise the issue with them as soon as possible.

Signs may include:

  • Dead or hanging branches
  • Large cracks in the trunk
  • Significant leaning
  • Fungal growth around the base
  • Storm damage

Where there is genuine risk, a qualified tree surgeon can inspect the tree and provide advice or a written report if needed.

The importance of professional tree pruning

Improper pruning can permanently damage a tree, create safety risks and even make future problems worse.

Professional tree surgeons understand:

  • Correct pruning techniques
  • British Standards for tree work
  • Tree biology and health
  • Safe climbing and dismantling methods
  • Legal restrictions and permissions

Whether the issue is overhanging branches, excessive shading or storm damage, expert advice can help resolve matters safely and responsibly. Simpson Arboriculture are fully qualified, experienced and insured, so both you and your neighbour can rest assured that everything is taken care of.

Final thoughts

So can I prune my neighbour’s tree? Yes, you can usually prune parts of a neighbour’s tree that cross into your property — but only within certain limits.

The best approach is always:

  1. Speak with your neighbour first
  2. Check for legal protections
  3. Use professional advice where needed
  4. Avoid damaging the tree

Handled properly, tree-related issues can often be resolved quickly and amicably without escalating into disputes.

If you are unsure how to proceed, a qualified tree surgeon such as Simpson Arboriculture can assess the situation and recommend the safest course of action.

If you are interested in finding out more, you can get in touch with us via our website. Our friendly team would be happy to discuss the work with you and answer any questions you may have.

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What’s the difference between tree crown lifting and crown reduction?

If you’ve been advised that your tree needs some attention, you may have come across terms like crown lifting and crown reduction. While they might sound similar, they serve very different purposes—and choosing the right approach can make a big difference to the health, safety, and appearance of your tree.

So what is the difference between crown lifting and crown reduction? In this blog, we will provide a clear breakdown to help you understand what each involves and when they are typically used.

What is Crown Lifting?

Crown lifting is the process of removing the lower branches of a tree’s canopy (its “crown”) to increase the clearance between the ground and the lowest branches.

This is often carried out to:

  • Improve access for pedestrians, vehicles, or machinery
  • Allow more light into a garden or property
  • Prevent branches from obstructing paths, roads, or driveways
  • Improve visibility, for example near road junctions

Rather than altering the overall size of the tree, crown lifting simply raises the height of the canopy. The shape and structure of the upper crown remain largely unchanged.

A careful approach is important—removing too many lower branches at once can affect the tree’s balance and long-term health. We would always advise having this carried out by professional tree surgeons. Qualified and experienced arborists will know how to effectively crown raise a tree to achieve the intended outcome, whilst supporting the health and balance of the tree.

What is Crown Reduction?

Crown reduction involves reducing the overall size of the tree’s canopy by shortening the outer branches. This is done by selectively cutting back to suitable growth points, maintaining the tree’s natural shape.

It’s commonly used to:

  • Reduce the height or spread of a tree
  • Manage trees that have outgrown their space
  • Minimise the risk of branch failure in exposed areas
  • Reduce shading or encroachment over buildings

Unlike crown lifting, crown reduction affects the entire canopy and requires skilled pruning to ensure the tree remains healthy and structurally sound. Again, as with any tree surgery work, you’re always best consulting a professional tree surgeon or tree surgery company to carry out the work.

Key Differences at a Glance

  • Crown lifting removes lower branches to raise clearance
  • Crown reduction reduces the overall size of the canopy
  • Crown lifting improves access and light at ground level
  • Crown reduction manages size, safety, and spread

Which One Does Your Tree Need?

The right approach depends on your goals and the condition of the tree. For example:

  • If branches are hanging too low over a driveway or garden, crown lifting is usually the best option
  • If a tree has become too large or is causing concern near buildings, crown reduction may be more appropriate

In some cases, a combination of both techniques can be used to achieve the desired result.

A Final Thought

Tree work is as much about long-term care as it is about immediate results. Both crown lifting and crown reduction should be carried out with an understanding of the tree species, its growth habits, and its surroundings.

If you’re unsure what your tree needs, getting professional advice ensures the work is done safely and in a way that supports the tree’s health for years to come. At Simpson Arboriculture, our team are fully qualified and experienced, making us a great choice to carry out your next tree work project.

If you would like guidance on the best approach for your trees, you can get in touch with us via our website. We would be happy to arrange for one of our team to come out and discuss the work with you.

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What’s the difference between tree pollarding and crown reduction?

Ash tree

Today, we are addressing a common query among our customers: What’s the difference between tree pollarding and crown reduction? These two pruning techniques may sound similar, but they serve distinct purposes in maintaining the health and aesthetics of a tree. Let’s shed some light on when and why each method could be undertaken.

Understanding tree pollarding

Tree pollarding is a specific pruning technique that involves the removal of all branches and stems of a tree back to the trunk. This severe form of pruning results in a compact head of branches, often referred to as a ‘Pollard head’. We would typically carry this out above the ground depending on the size of the tree.

  • Aesthetic control: We may carry out tree pollarding to control the size and shape of a tree. This can be especially useful in urban areas with limited space.
  • Long term maintenance: When carried out correctly, pollarding can extend the lifespan of certain tree species. It encourages the growth of a dense network of young shoots, which can reduce the risk of disease and decay.
  • Urban adaptation: We also may choose pollarding as an option to manage a tree’s size and shape within the confines of urban environments, thus preventing interference with power lines and buildings.

Understanding crown reduction

Crown reduction on the other hand, is a less radical approach to tree pruning. This technique involves selectively reducing the height and spread of a tree’s crown while maintaining its natural shape.

  • Canopy reduction: Crown reduction focuses on removing specific branches to decrease the overall size of a tree’s canopy. We often employ this method to address issues such as crowding, light obstruction or proximity to structures
  • Health improvement: Crown reduction can enhance a tree’s overall health by eliminating dead or diseased branches. This allows for better air circulation and sunlight penetration, promoting a healthier, more resilient tree
  • Aesthetic appeal: After discussion with a customer, we commonly choose this approach for its ability to maintain the natural form of a tree while addressing issues related to size and structure

Choosing the right technique

The decision between tree pollarding and crown reduction depends on various factors, including the tree species, its location and the aims and objectives of the work. Consulting with a professional and experienced arborist, such as our team at Simpson Arboriculture, is crucial. We can assess your tree and suggest appropriate action which will both achieve the customers’ aims and support the health and longevity of the tree. We specialise in carrying out tree work to ‘British Standard BS3998: 2010 Tree Work- recommendations’.

Conclusion

In the world of arboriculture, understanding the distinctions between tree pollarding and crown reduction is key to making informed decisions about the maintenance of your trees. Whether you’re looking to control size, improve aesthetics or enhance the health of your trees, Simpson Arboriculture is here to help! We can provide expert advice and professional services tailored to meet the needs of your trees. You can get in touch with us in the office or via our by submitting an enquiry on our website.

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