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Do I need permission to cut my tree down?

Do I need permission to cut my tree down? It’s a question we’re asked regularly –  and the answer isn’t always a simple yes or no.

In many cases, you can carry out work to trees on your own property. But there are some important rules in place across the UK to protect trees, wildlife and the wider landscape. Before any work starts, it’s worth checking whether permission is required.

Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand where you stand.

When you don’t usually need permission

If your tree is in a normal residential setting and is not protected, you can generally carry out work such as pruning or removal without applying for formal permission.

That said, there are still responsibilities:

  • You must ensure the work is safe and carried out correctly
  • You must check for wildlife (for example, nesting birds)
  • You are responsible for any damage or risk caused by the tree

Even when permission isn’t required, getting professional advice is always worthwhile – especially for larger trees or those close to buildings.

Trees in conservation areas

One of the most common reasons you do need permission is if your tree is within a conservation area.

These are designated locations with special architectural or historical importance, where trees contribute to the character of the area.

In this case:

  • You must give your local council at least 6 weeks’ notice before carrying out work
  • This is known as a Section 211 notice
  • During that time, the council can decide to place a TPO on the tree

In many conservation areas, trees above a certain size are automatically protected, even without a formal order.

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

Another reason why you may need permission is if your tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).

A TPO is put in place by your local council to protect trees that offer significant public value. This could be because of their appearance, age, or contribution to the local environment.

If a tree has a TPO:

  • You must apply to the local authority before carrying out work. This usually takes around 8 weeks
  • This includes pruning, reducing, or removing the tree
  • Carrying out unauthorised work can lead to enforcement action and fines

Under UK guidance, a TPO makes it an offence to cut down, uproot, top or damage a protected tree without consent.

In some cases, if the tree is dead/ dying, or emergency tree work is required, you can apply under a ‘Five day notice’ rather than waiting for the full eight weeks. Although this will still be at the local authority’s discretion, and ultimately, no work should be carried out until they have approved it.

Felling licences (for woodland and larger-scale work)

For larger projects – particularly in woodland, forestry, or commercial settings – a felling licence may be required from the Forestry Commission.

In the UK:

  • It is generally illegal to fell trees without a licence unless an exemption applies
  • This applies to larger volumes of timber, rather than typical garden trees
  • Both the landowner and contractor share responsibility for compliance

Felling licences are designed to protect woodland management and ensure sustainable practices

Even if a licence is granted, you may still need to consider:

  • TPOs
  • Conservation area restrictions
  • Environmental factors (wildlife, protected sites, etc.)

Checking before any work begins

Because there are a few different rules that can apply, it’s important to make sure everything is in order before any work starts. As part of our approach at Simpson Arboriculture, we always check whether a tree is protected by a TPO, located within a conservation area, or subject to any other restrictions.

This helps avoid delays, ensures everything is carried out legally, and gives you peace of mind that the right steps have been followed. If permission is required, we can guide you through the process or handle the application on your behalf, keeping things as straightforward as possible.

So, how do you know if permission is needed?

Before any tree work, you need to check:

  • Is the property in a conservation area?
  • Is the tree covered by a TPO?
  • Is the work part of a larger-scale or commercial operation?

To find out more, you can visit the Government website page on Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas for further information.

Final thoughts

At Simpson Arboriculture, we always take the time to check whether permission is needed, so even if you aren’t sure if this applies, we have this covered. If your trees do fall within a conservation area or are subject to a TPO, we can apply to your local council on your behalf for a small admin fee. We can then oversee the whole process, giving our customers peace of mind that everything is taken care of.

If you’re thinking about having tree work carried out, feel free to get in touch with us at Simpson Arboriculture. Whether you’re ready to arrange a quote or just starting to explore your options, we’re always happy to have a chat and help you get the process underway.

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The Importance of Spring Pruning: Enhancing Tree Health and Appearance

Ash tree

As the weather’s getting warmer and the nights are getting lighter, it’s time to turn our attention to the vital task of spring pruning. While it may seem like a simple chore, pruning plays a pivotal role in nurturing the health and beauty of our trees. In this blog, we’ll delve into why spring is the perfect season for pruning trees and explore the myriad benefits it brings to both tree and landscape.

Why spring pruning?

Spring is a season of renewal, making it the optimal time to tend to the needs of our trees. Here are several reasons why:

  1. Assess any issues. The harsh winter months can take their toll on trees, leaving them vulnerable to damage and disease. Spring is an ideal time to assess and address any issues such as broken or damaged branches.
  2. Stimulate growth. Trees experience a surge of growth in the spring. Pruning during this time encourages new growth by removing dead or weak branches, allowing the tree to redirect its energy towards healthy development.
  3. Disease and pest management. Dead or diseased branches not only detract from the beauty of a tree, but also serve as entry points for harmful pathogens and pests. By removing these compromised branches in spring, we can mitigate the risk of disease, safeguarding the overall health of the tree.
  4. Shape and structure. Proper pruning in spring helps shape the growth of trees, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. By selectively removing branches, we can sculpt the tree’s canopy, improving air circulation, sunlight and overall form.

Benefits of spring pruning

The advantages of spring pruning extend beyond the aesthetic, encompassing a range of benefits that contribute to the long-term vitality of trees:

  1. Promotes healing. Pruning optimises the tree’s natural healing process, compartmentalising wounds to minimise the risk of decay.
  2. Enhances flowering and fruit production. For flowering and fruit bearing trees, spring pruning can significantly impact the quality and quantity of blooms or fruits. By removing dead or overcrowded branches, we create space for new growth.
  3. Preserves tree longevity. A well-maintained tree is more likely to enjoy a long and healthy life. By implementing regular pruning practices, we can prolong the lifespan of trees, ensuring they thrive for many years to come.

How we can help

At Simpson Arboriculture, we recognise that spring pruning is vital for nurturing the health and beauty of your trees. With our expertise, we go beyond mere maintenance. By entrusting our skilled team with your spring pruning needs, you’ll be investing in the longevity and vitality of your landscape. To find out more or arrange a quote, you can get in touch with us in the office or make an enquiry via our website.

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Summer tree maintenance: protecting your trees from heat and storms

Summer can bring a whole manner of challenges for trees- from heat stress and drought to summer storms. At Simpson Arboriculture, we know first-hand that regular tree maintenance can help keep trees healthy and reduce risks.

High temperatures and drought can hugely impact the health of trees. It can cause leaf scorch, wilting and dehydration. Signs to look out for include brown or curling leaves and even premature leaf drop.

How to protect your trees from heat stress

Adding a layer of mulch around the base of a tree is a great way to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Deep watering is also vital to help trees stay hydrated. During hot weather, we would recommend watering early in the morning or late in the evening. Watering during hot, sunny weather can cause leaves to scorch. Deep watering is much more effective than frequent, shallow watering.

For suggestions of tree species that cope well with dry, hot conditions, you can gain more information by having a read of The Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) article: Trees for Climate Change.

The risks of summer storms

Summer storms can wreak havoc for your trees. They often bring ample amounts of rainfall which can cause waterlogging. They also very often bring high winds. This can cause tree branches to break and fall. Any weak points in trees that have been left unchecked can soon make themselves known in the form of snapped out branches or falling limbs.

Preparing for stormy weather

As with many things, preparation is key! We always recommend assessing your trees regularly to ensure that they are in good health and vitality. As part of your summer tree maintenance, checking for weak points, dead branches or even overgrown branches is essential. These could quickly become hazardous if left unchecked. Did you know that thinning out a tree’s canopy can reduce wind resistance by allowing the wind to move through it more easily? 

At Simpson Arboriculture, our professional team can advise you on the health and condition of your trees, and suggest key maintenance work to keep them healthy and minimise risk. From removing dead branches, thinning a tree’s canopy or reducing overhanging branches, we have the knowledge and expertise to advise you on what is most necessary. Our friendly team at Simpson Arboriculture can take care of the whole process from start to finish.

Get in touch

In conclusion, it’s always good to be prepared! Summer tree maintenance is very often better (and cheaper) than dealing with dehydrated or storm damaged trees afterwards. As a tree owner, there are lots of things you can do to ensure the health of your trees yourself, from mulching and regular watering, to doing annual visual checks of your trees.

If you think your trees would benefit from some expert tree maintenance work, contact Simpson Arboriculture. You can reach us in the office or via our website. We are always happy to discuss different options, sharing our professional opinions and quote for any work that is needed.

Summer pruning of tree
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Hiring a tree surgeon in Lincolnshire: Ask an expert

Do you need a tree pruning, removing or assessing? Hiring a professional tree surgeon in Lincolnshire such as Simpson Arboriculture ensures the job is done safely and efficiently. But if you have never used a tree surgeon before, you may be wondering what to expect.

Here’s a guide to help you understand the process. We can guide you in what to look for when hiring a tree surgeon in Lincolnshire. Simpson Arboriculture are available to cover all of your tree surgery needs.

1. Initial contact and consultation

At Simpson Arboriculture, the process begins with an initial enquiry. This is either by phone, email or via our online form. At this stage, our tree surgery customers in Lincolnshire provide their contact details. It’s also a good idea to provide details such as:

  • The type of tree work required (ie.. tree pruning, tree crown reduction, tree removal, site clearance, stump grinding, etc)
  • The size and location of the tree/s
  • Any access restrictions or potential challenges
  • If the tree is in a conservation area or is protected by a TPO (Tree Preservation Order).

2. Site visit and quotation

For us, the next step would be to arrange a site visit. This usually involves one of our experienced managers coming out to have a look in person.

During the visit they will:

  • Evaluate the health and structure of the tree/s
  • Assess potential risks and safety concerns
  • Consider factors like nearby buildings, power lines or protected areas
  • Recommend the best course of action

This is also a great opportunity for them to foresee any challenges or restrictions that need to be planned for.

Following the site visit, you will receive a written quotation. This is usually by email, although we can also send this out as a paper copy if required. This will include details of the work specification, our terms and conditions and a total cost.

3. Understanding the work plan

Any reputable tree surgeon such as Simpson Arboriculture in Lincolnshire will explain the work in detail. This ensures that our customer understands the process. This may include:

  • The equipment that will be used (e.g. a MEWP for access the tree, stump grinder, or tractor and trailer to remove waste etc)
  • Waste removal options (e.g. chipping and removing all waste, leaving chip or logs for the customer)
  • Any necessary permissions (e.g. where there are TPO or Conservation Area restrictions)
  • If a power line shutdown is required for the work to be carried out safely

For these services (permissions or power shutdowns), we can apply and oversee the whole process for a £25 admin fee. This will be listed on the quotation where applicable.

We always include a copy of our company’s Terms and Conditions, and encourage our customers to get in touch with our friendly team if they have any queries.

4. Accepting the quote and booking in

If the customer is happy with the quotation, they will contact us in the office to let us know they would like to go ahead. We will then come back with our next available date. This can vary depending on the nature of the job, time of year and how busy we are. We do always try and notify customers early on if we have a particularly long wait time.

At this stage, our staff at Simpson Arboriculture would then make a start on any TPO/ conservation area applications if required. They would also get in touch with National Grid to arrange a power shutdown if needed.

5. The day of the job

We will always notify our customers of an approximate arrival time for our team, so they know when to expect them. We will usually ask for any cars to be moved off the drive beforehand if they require access for vehicles or machinery. The team leader will knock on the door and check in with you, go through any final details and ask any questions. This is a great time to ask anything you are unsure about, or let the team know any other information they might need.

The team will then get started! They work hard and are very self-sufficient, so at this stage you can rest assured that everything is being taken care of by our experienced and professional team.

On completion of the work, the team will then let you know they are finished and ask you to come out and check that you are happy with everything. It’s really important to let the team know if you have any queries at this point, e.g. if anything has been missed. It’s always better to resolve any issues while the team are there. Our friendly team will endeavour to ensure that our customers are fully satisfied with the work carried out. 

6. After the job & payment

Once all of the work has been completed and you are happy with everything, we will then send you an invoice. This is usually within one to three days. We offer payment via BACS transfer, or we accept cheques. We always love to hear feedback from our customers. This helps us know what we are doing well, and if there are any areas we can improve on. an email or a phone call are always appreciated if you do have feedback you would like to share. Our team in the office can then ensure this is passed onto the rest of the team.

Get in touch!

Overall, hiring a professional tree surgery company such as Simpson Arboriculture takes the stress out of the job. Our customers can rest assured that the whole process will be taken care of from start to finish, and the job will be completed safely and effectively. By allowing our customers to understand the process, you can feel confident in choosing the right professionals for your garden needs.

You can visit our website to find out more about the services we can offer.

If you require a tree surgeon based in Lincolnshire, get in touch! Our friendly team are available to contact by phone, or via our enquiry form on our website. Quotations are free of charge and we are always happy to discuss your needs and answer any questions you may have.

Professional tree surgeons in Lincolnshire

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Elevate your Outdoors: Tips for Creating a Beautiful Landscape

Welcome to Simpson Arboriculture- your go-to experts for all things tree related in Grantham, Lincolnshire. As a small tree surgery company passionate about greenery, we understand the importance of a beautiful landscape. A well-maintained outdoor space really does enhance the aesthetics of your property. In this blog, we’ll share some valuable tips to help you create a stunning landscape that stands out. From tree surgery to fencing, stump grinding to hedge trimming, we’ve got you covered.

Tree surgery excellence

Trees are the backbone of any landscape, providing shade, oxygen and visual appeal. Our expertise lies in tree surgery, ensuring that your trees are healthy, safe and enhance the overall beauty of your garden. Regular pruning, shaping and removal of dead branches can make a significant difference.

Stump grinding

Nothing disrupts the flow of a landscape like unsightly tree stumps. Our stump grinding services can effectively eliminate these obstacles, creating a smooth and seamless surface. Once those stumps are gone, you’ll have more space for other landscaping elements.

Fencing for security and style

A well-designed fence not only adds a layer of security to your property, but also serves as a decorative element. Our fencing solutions, from feather edge to Lincolnshire post and rail, can be used to complement the natural beauty of your landscape. Our team can advise you on the best options for your garden. We take care of the whole process from start to finish.

Precision pruning

Whether it’s shaping shrubs, maintaining the form of ornamental trees, or encouraging healthy growth on your fruit trees, our pruning services contribute to a neat and manicured landscape. A well-pruned garden not only looks appealing, but also promotes plant health and longevity.

Hedge trimming

Hedges are like the green framework of your outdoor space. Regular trimming ensure they remain tidy and defined. Our hedge trimming services add structure and elegance to your landscape, creating a polished and well-maintained appearance.

Get in touch

At Simpson Arboriculture, we take pride in transforming outdoor spaces. By combining our expertise in tree surgery, stump grinding, fencing, pruning and hedge trimming, we can help you achieve a landscape to be proud of. To find out more about our services, you can find ample information on our website. If you would like to arrange a quotation, you can get in touch with us in the office or submit an enquiry on your website.   

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Tree Safety: How Tree Surgery Can Keep You and Your Family Safe

Simpson Arboriculture are a trusted and well-established tree surgery company based in Ancaster, Lincolnshire. Trees are not just beautiful additions to our landscapes; they are essential for a healthy environment. However, as majestic as they are, trees can pose potential risks if not properly maintained. In this blog, we’ll explore the crucial role of tree surgery in ensuring the safety of your property and more importantly, your loved ones.

The importance of tree safety

When left unchecked, trees can develop structural issues, diseases and hazardous limbs that may compromise their stability. These issues pose a threat to your property and the people around. Tree safety is not just about preventing damage to structures, it is also about protecting the well-being of those who inhabit the area.

The role of tree surgery

Tree surgery, or arboriculture, involves a range of practices aimed at promoting tree health, maintaining structural integrity and mitigating potential risks. Here’s how tree surgery can contribute to overall tree safety:

  1. Regular inspection: Professional arborists can identify signs of disease, decay or structural weaknesses. Early detection allows for timely intervention, preventing potential hazards.
  2. Pruning for safety: Tree surgery includes strategic pruning to remove dead, damaged or weak branches. This not only enhances the tree’s aesthetics but also reduced the risk of falling limbs during storms or adverse weather conditions.  
  3. Structural support: In cases where a tree has structural issues or is at risk of failure, arborists such as our experienced team at Simpson Arboriculture, can provide support systems such as cabling and bracing. This helps stabilise the tree, reducing the likelihood of branches or the entire tree falling.
  4. Emergency response: Simpson Arboriculture are equipped to handle emergency situations, such as storm damage or fallen trees. Our quick response and expertise ensure a safe and efficient resolution to protect your property and loved ones.

Our experienced team have ample experience in dealing with fallen limbs, deadwood and trees blocking roads. They have attended emergency callouts on many occasions where trees have failed during storms and high winds and have had the power to destroy walls, fences, garden structures and even roofs.

Conclusion

At Simpson Arboriculture, we understand the significance of tree safety. Our team of skilled arborists is dedicated to preserving the beauty of trees while ensuring the safety of your family and property. Regular tree surgery not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your landscape, but also contributes to a secure and hazard-free environment.

If you have concerns about the safety of your trees or would like to schedule a visit for us to provide a quotation for work, contact us today. You can reach us in the office, or you can submit an enquiry on our website.

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Summer tree care tips

Summer pruning of tree

With the days getting longer and the weather (finally!) getting warmer, summer is just around the corner. For many of our customers, this means getting outdoors and enjoying their garden space. It’s also an ideal time to carry out some essential tree care. Whilst many people associate the autumn and winter months with tree pruning, care and maintenance, summer can also be a great time to carry out certain tasks.

At Simpson Arboriculture, our team can help! Our team of experienced arborists can advise you on maintenance and tree pruning and carry out any work needed professionally and efficiently.

Here are a few of our summer tree care tips. These are some helpful things you can do to ensure that your trees thrive all year round.

  1. Assessing the health of your trees. It is important to check your trees for any signs of weakness or damage regularly. This can help prevent any damage to your home or garden being caused when the weather changes and we experience more high winds and storms over the autumn and winter months. If you have any concerns, our team would be happy to have a look and advise you on any work that could support the health of the tree whilst keeping the trees safe.
  2. Removing dead, diseased or damaged branches. Removal of branches that are likely to snap out or fail is essential for tree owners. Summer is a great time to carry out this kind of maintenance ahead of the autumn and winter months.
  3. Tree watering tips. During the summer, particularly during periods of low rainfall and higher temperatures, you should water younger trees regularly. Deep watering will allow the tree’s roots to stay saturated- only watering on the surface will mean that most of this evaporates. Watering once or twice a week is usually about right, especially for young trees. We advise watering early in the morning to avoid leaf scorch and evaporation.
  4. Mulching. Adding mulch in around the base of young trees is a great way to conserve moisture during the warmer months. It’s also a great way to prevent weeds from encroaching. Tree owners should clear any grass and weeds to allow around a 1 metre radius. You can add woodchip or shredded bark in a loose 2–3-inch layer, avoiding direct contact with the trunk of the tree. This will allow oxygen to flow freely to the root system.
  5. Summer tree pruning. There are several tree species that the Arboricultural Association advise can be pruned during the summer months. These include magnolia, cherry, walnut, maple, birch and beech. Magnolia for example is prone to bleeding when pruned, so pruning during mid-summer allows ample time for healing to begin before the dormant season. Arborists can be carried out on many other tree species during the summer months. Our knowledgeable team will be able to recommend the best times for pruning and we can arrange this accordingly. For more information, you can refer to the Arboricultural Association’s ‘Guide to Tree Pruning’ leaflet.
  6. Checking your trees. Do you have a tree supporting a washing line, or any Christmas lights still up in the garden? If so, it’s important to check that these are loose enough around any tree branches. Owners should loosen any lights or other wires that are tightly wrapped around the branches, as these can result in wounds or damage to the bark. In some cases, they can also inhibit a tree’s growth.

Get in touch

So as we move into summer, be sure to keep up with your tree care and maintenance. If you would like some advice or a quotation for your tree work, our experienced team at Simpson Arboriculture are happy to help. Visit our website and submit an enquiry, or give our team a call in the office.

Regular tree care and maintenance through the seasons can ensure safe, healthy and thriving trees for many years to come.  

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Your Local Tree Surgeons

Welcome to Simpson Arboriculture, your trusted local tree surgeons based in Ancaster, Lincolnshire. We take great pride in offering high standard tree work both in our local community and further afield. We have a deep-rooted passion for trees and a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of our community. In this blog, we invite you to learn more about Simpson Arboriculture, the range of services we provide and reasons why you should choose us for your next garden project.

Your Local Tree Surgeons: Who We Are

Started by William Simpson back in 2006, Simpson Arboriculture is a trustworthy, professional and well-established tree surgery company. Based on the family farm, Will and his wife Kate work full-time to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the business. Kate runs the office while Will works daily on-site and manages multiple teams carrying out various tree work and site clearance across Lincolnshire and further afield. We 17 years’ experience, we have built up a loyal customer base and a great reputation as professional local tree surgeons.

Your Local Tree Surgeons: Our services

  1. Tree surgery. As trusted local tree surgeons, we have a great reputation for carrying out quality tree work. We specialise in carrying out tree work to ‘British Standards BS3998: 2010 Tree Work Recommendations’. This means that the finished result not only looks great, but supports the overall health of the tree.   
  • Tree removal. While trees are a fantastic asset, sometimes they do require removal. Our professional and trustworthy arborists will be able to discuss and explain the options for tree removal.
  • Hedge care and tree planting. Simpson Arboriculture offer hedge trimming and hedge reduction. We are also proud to offer both tree and hedge planting services. With extensive tree and hedge knowledge, our team are always happy to advise you.
  • Fencing. From sourcing to installation, our team at Simpson Arboriculture can manage the whole fencing project from start to finish on a wide variety of fences. We carry out the work in a professional and timely manner.
  • Site clearance. Our specialised machinery make light work of removing trees and vegetation from a site. We get the job done in the safest, most efficient and cost-effective way possible.
  • Firewood. Our ‘Ready to Burn’ kiln-dried, hardwood logs are available throughout the year and delivered directly to your door. Logs are sustainably sourced using BSL authorised virgin wood.

Why Choose Us?

Our team at Simpson Arboriculture consists of experienced and qualified arborists who are passionate about trees and have many years of experience.

We have been officially recognised as being qualified to perform tree work by multiple health and safety bodies. This recognises that we work safely and efficiently and carry out tree work to the highest standard. We are proud to be recognised as an Arb Approved Contractor. This is the most prestigious accreditation scheme in the arboricultural industry. It’s a great way for customers to recognise a professional and qualified tree surgery company. Customer satisfaction is always a top priority for us. We carry out work to the highest standard, giving you peace of mind from start to finish.

With a friendly and professional team, many of our customers come back year on year and recommend us to their neighbours, friends and family.

Contact Us

If you’re in interested in finding out more about how we can help with your next garden project, you can call our office or submit an enquiry via our website. We would be happy to discuss your future requirements and arrange a free quotation.

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Tree Pruning: Unlocking the Beauty of your Trees

At Simpson Arboriculture, we take immense pride in our tree pruning and are committed to enhancing the beauty of your landscape. Trees are not only a vital part of our environment; they are also a significant investment in your property. Proper tree care and maintenance is essential to ensure their health, longevity and aesthetic appeal. In this blog, we will explore the art and science of tree pruning and how it can unlock the full potential of your trees.

Understanding the importance of tree pruning

Tree pruning is not simply about trimming away branches. It is a carefully planned and executed process aimed at improving tree health and structure. Pruning can remove dead, diseased or damaged branches, thus improving the overall health of the tree. Proper pruning can also transform the appearance of your trees, shaping them to complement your landscape and improving the visual appeal of your garden.

By eliminating crowded or crossing branches, pruning allows more sunlight and air circulation and stimulates new growth. Furthermore, regular attention reduces the risk of falling branches, thus making the tree safer. Our expert team of arborists at Simpson Arboriculture are qualified and experienced in carrying out tree pruning to a high standard.

The art of tree pruning: techniques

Different species and their growth patterns require specific pruning techniques for optimal results. Some common pruning methods include:

Crown thinning. This involves selectively removing inner branches to improve light penetration and air circulation within the crown, promoting healthy growth.

Crown raising. Raising the lower branches can create clearance for pedestrians, vehicles and buildings while maintaining the tree’s integrity.

Crown reduction. When a tree has grown too large for its surroundings, crown reduction helps reduce its height and spread, ensuring that it remains safe and visually appealing.

Deadwood removal. Removing dead or dying branches not only improves the tree’s appearance, but also eliminates potential hazards.

The science behind tree pruning

Pruning is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires a thorough understanding of tree biology and growth patterns. Our skilled arborists at Simpson Arboriculture assess each tree and recommend an approach accordingly. Factors such as species, age, health and time of year all play a part in determining the pruning approach that is needed.  

Our team ensures that pruning is carried out during the appropriate seasons, as different trees respond differently to pruning at various times of the year. For example, deciduous trees are best pruned during their dormant season, while some flowering trees are pruned after they bloom.

Trust the experts at Simpson Arboriculture

Tree pruning is a delicate task that requires expertise, knowledge and the right tools. Attempting to prune your own trees can result in irreversible damage to the tree or even pose risks to your safety. By entrusting the care of your trees to our skilled professionals, you can be confident that the work will be carried out to a high standard.

Our team at Simpson Arboriculture provides top-notch tree surgery. Get in touch with us today to discuss your tree pruning needs. We would be more than happy to discuss the work with you. You can contact us by phone in the office or send us an enquiry via our website. 

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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: Wecmay 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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