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.  

As spring begins and gardens come back to life, it’s the perfect time to address those lingering reminders of past tree removals: tree stumps. While tree removal is often a necessary step in landscaping and property maintenance, the presence of unsightly stumps can detract from the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. That’s where stump grinding comes in, and spring/ summer is the perfect time to tackle this task.

At Simpson Arboriculture, we understand the importance of timely and efficient stump removal. That’s why we are here to highlight the many benefits of addressing this issue during the warmer months.

Stump grinding: easier access to site

One key advantage of opting for stump grinding over the drier months is the improved accessibility to the site. With the ground dried out after winter, our team can navigate your property much easily, minimising any damage to the surrounding area.

With our Rayco RG37T and Rayco Mini-Workforce RG13-II stump grinders, we have the best machines for the job. Our smaller stump grinder is great for harder to reach places and gardens with a narrow access. At just 63.5cm in width, our Rayco RG13-II stump grinder can fit through most garden gates or narrow walkways.

Stump grinding: faster decomposition in warmer weather

Another great reason to schedule your stump grinding during the spring/ summer is the favourable weather conditions for decomposition. Warmer temperatures and increased moisture levels accelerate the natural breakdown of wood. This facilitates the process of returning nutrients to the soil. This allows you to reclaim this valuable space sooner rather than later.

Preparing an area for new landscaping projects

Perhaps the most exciting benefit of spring/ summer stump grinding is the opportunity for new landscaping projects. Whether you’re planning a vegetable patch, lawn or patio area, removing stumps is the first step towards bringing this into fruition.

With our purpose built equipment, we can efficiently eliminate stumps of most shapes and sizes. This leaves behind a clean slate for your landscaping plans. Our Rayco RG37T is perfect for tackling larger stumps with ease, while our newly acquired Rayco Mini-Workforce RG13-II is ideal for navigating narrow access gardens and tight spaces.

Trust Simpson Arboriculture for professional stump grinding services

At Simpson Arboriculture, we’re committed to providing our customers with a high-quality service, tailored to meet their garden needs. Whether you’re dealing with a single stump or a group/ row, our experienced team and specialised equipment ensure efficient and effective stump removal, leaving your garden looking its best.

Don’t let unsightly stumps detract from the beauty and functionality of your garden this summer. Simply fill out the stump grinding form on our website. Then we can send you over a quotation for the work.  Our professional team at Simpson Arboriculture take care of the whole process from start to finish. This leaves you to enjoy more time in your garden.

Hedge planting

As spring is in the air, it’s the perfect time to celebrate our wonderful hedgerows. From providing sanctuary to wildlife to delineating boundaries and enhancing landscapes, hedgerows are an essential feature of our natural environment. National Hedgerow Week (6-12 May 2024) presents an opportunity to delve into the myriad benefits of hedging and what we can do to support them.  

Hedge trimming and reduction: preserving beauty and functionality

Trimming and reducing hedges are vital practices in maintaining their health and aesthetic appeal. At Simpson Arboriculture, our skilled tree surgeons understand the balance between shaping hedges to perfection and ensuring their health of the plants. By carefully trimming overgrowth and shaping hedge lines, we not only enhance the visual appeal of landscapes but also promote healthier growth.  

Hedge planting: cultivating green corridors

Hedges are essentially green corridors that connect habitats and promote biodiversity. Whether it’s reviving ancient hedgerows or establishing new ones, every hedge counts! Our experienced team plant hedgerows that we intend to grow and thrive for years to come. We can advise customers on the best hedge plants for their garden, to meet all their hedging needs. This might be balancing appearance and functionality with using native species, and choosing plants that are suited to the type of soil in the area. We want your hedges to both look great and grow healthily. 

Hedges: Bird nesting awareness

At Simpson Arboriculture, we recognise the importance of protecting birds, especially during nesting season. We take our responsibility seriously, and our arb teams are trained to carry out wildlife disturbance assessments before embarking on any hedge or tree work. By fostering a culture of bird nesting awareness, we can safeguard avian populations and ensure their continued presence in our hedgerows.  

Hedges: Environmental benefits 

Hedgerows are more than just natural boundaries; they are dynamic ecosystems teeming with life. They provide food and shelter for birds, insects and small mammals and act as carbon sinks and mitigate soil erosion. Hedgerows play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and environmental resilience. By preserving and expanding hedgerow networks, we contribute to the broader conservation efforts to safeguard our planet’s ecological balance. 

Conclusion

Through responsible hedge management practices and a commitment to wildlife conservation, we can sow the seeds of a greener, more sustainable future. If you are interested in maintaining the existing hedges in your garden or even planting new ones, get in touch. Our expert team at Simpson Arboriculture would be happy to advise and provide a quote for any work. For planting, we oversee the whole process from start to finish. We source high quality hedge plants and have ample experience in planting to ensure that they grow and thrive. As we celebrate National Hedgerow Week, we can appreciate the invaluable contributions of hedgerows to our environment and communities. We can help the environment one hedge at a time, and ensure that these diverse corridors endure for generations to come. 

For more information, you can visit: 

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.

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.

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.   

As winter settles in and the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a crackling fire to make your home feel cosy. However, the key to a successful and efficient fire lies in the choice of firewood. At Simpson Arboriculture, we believe that kiln-dried logs are the answer to keeping your warm and toasty throughout the chilly winter months. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of opting for kiln-dried logs for your fireplace.

Efficient burning

Kiln-dried logs have an edge when it comes to efficiency. Our drying process in the kiln ensures low-moisture logs. It quickly removes excess water from the logs to ensure optimal levels. Our Ready to Burn hardwood logs are tested to ensure they are below 20% moisture. They are carefully checked, so our customers achieve the perfect burn every time.

Consistent heat output

One of the challenges with air-dried or green wood is the inconsistency in heat output. Kiln-dried logs on the other hand, offer a consistent and reliable source of heat. The controlled drying process ensures that each log has a uniform moisture content, resulting in a more even and sustained flame. This makes it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature in your living space.

Reduced creosote buildup

Creosote buildup in your chimney is not only a potential fire hazard, but can also decrease the efficiency of your fireplace. Kiln-dried logs burn more cleanly, producing less creosote compared to their less-dried counterparts. This means less maintenance for your chimney and a safer environment for your home.

Environmentally friendly choice              

Kiln-dried logs are an environmentally friendly option. The controlled drying process is more energy efficient compared to traditional air-drying methods, resulting in a smaller carbon footprint. By choosing kiln-dried logs, you’re not only keeping your home warm but also making a more sustainable choice for the planet.

Convenient handling

Handling kiln-dried logs is a breeze. With their lower moisture content, these logs are lighter and easier to transport and store. You won’t have to deal with the heavy, damp logs that can be a challenge to move around. This convenience makes the entire process, rom purchase to burning, much more enjoyable.

Ideal for Indoor and Outdoor Use

Whether you’re lighting up your indoor fireplace or enjoying an outdoor fire pit, kiln-dried logs are versatile enough to meet your needs. Their low moisture content makes them well-suited for indoor use, while their efficiency and clean burn make them a great choice for outdoor gatherings.

Get in touch

As winter descends upon us, make the smart choice for warmth and ambience- choose kiln-dried logs from Simpson Arboriculture. Our commitment to quality ensures that you’ll have a reliable and efficient source of heat to keep you warm all season long. Contact us today in the office or place an order online.

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.

At Simpson Arboriculture, we know that trees are not only a beautiful addition to your landscape but also vital for a healthy environment. To keep your trees thriving and safe, it’s essential to provide them with regular maintenance throughout the seasons. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of year-round tree care and the specific tasks you should consider to ensure that your trees remain healthy and strong.

Spring: Pruning and inspection

Spring is the season of renewal and it’s the perfect time to kickstart your tree maintenance routine. Here’s why:

  1. Pruning. Early spring, before the leaves fully emerge, is an ideal time for tree pruning. This process helps remove dead or damaged branches and encourages new growth. It’s always best to check with the experts of course, as some tree species have different requirements. Our team at Simpson Arboriculture would be happy to advise you.
  2. Disease and pest prevention. As trees start to bud, it’s essential to inspect them for signs of disease or pest infestations. Early detection can prevent these issues from spreading and causing serious damage.

Summer: Hydration and mulching

  1. Hydration. Regularly water your trees, especially during dry spells to prevent stress and dehydration. Deep watering is more effective than surface watering.
  2. Mulching. Apply a layer of mulch around the vase of your trees to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature and suppress weed growth.

Autumn: Removal and assessment

In the Autumn, leaves begin to fall and it’s time to start preparing your trees for winter.

  1. Leaf removal. Keeping your lawn free of fallen leaves can help prevent diseases, improve air circulation and avoids suffocating your grass and trees
  2. Assessment. Use the autumn season to inspect your trees for structural issues and consider pruning or cabling to prevent winter-related breakage.

Winter: Pruning and protection

While many trees may appear dormant in winter, it’s still a crucial season for maintenance.

  1. Pruning (late winter). Late winter is an excellent time to prune trees while they are dormant. Again, it is always best to check with a professional to ensure that this is right for the tree species as the best time for pruning for some species will vary.
  2. Protection from the elements. Winter storms can be harsh on trees. Be sure to protect them from heavy snow and ice, and consider wrapping young trees to prevent frost damage.

Year-round tree care and maintenance

Simpson Arboriculture emphasises the importance of regular tree maintenance through all seasons. Each season offers unique opportunities to care for your trees, ensuring their health, longevity and safety. If you’re unsure about the specific needs of your trees, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional arborist. This will help you to plan your tree maintenance and the best time of the year to carry out the work. A little care throughout the year goes a long way in preserving the natural beauty of your garden and ensuring strong and healthy trees for many years to come.

Are unsightly tree stumps spoiling the beauty of your garden? If you are looking for a stump grinding service near you, then Simpson Arboriculture are here to help! We specialise in removing tree stumps efficiently and effectively, to ensure that your garden looks its best. We also offer an eco-friendly solution of with our eco plugs for those stumps that stump even the stump grinder.

Stump grinding service: why remove stumps?

Before we explore the details of our stump grinding service, here’s a few reasons why removing tree stumps is so important:

  1. Enhanced aesthetics. Stumps can be unsightly and disrupt the overall appearance of your garden. Removing them can instantly improve the visual appeal of your outdoor space.  
  2. Safety. Tree stumps can pose tripping hazards, especially in areas where children play or people walk frequently. Removing them reduces the risk of accidents.   
  3. Space utilisation. Stumps can occupy valuable space in your garden, limiting your landscape options. Removing them opens up the area for new planting or other landscaping ideas.  
  4. Disease and pests. Tree stumps can become breeding grounds for fungi and pests, which can potentially harm nearby plants and trees.

Simpson Arboriculture’s stump grinding service

At Simpson Arboriculture, we take pride in our professional stump grinding service. Our team of experienced arborists is equipped with a stump grinder which is capable of removing stumps of all sizes quickly and efficiently. Here’s how the process works:

  1. Assessment/ quotation. Many of our customers use the stump grinding form on our website when submitting a stump grinding service enquiry. This asks for access details and photos, which enables our team to quote accurately for the work.
  2. Booking in a date and time. Once a customer has accepted the quote, we will be in touch to arrange a day and time for the stump grinding
  3. Stump grinding. Our stump grinder is designed to grind down stumps quickly and effectively. This prevents regrowth and provides a smooth and level area for landscaping.
  4. Clean up. Stump grindings/ shavings are used to backfill the resulting hole as they decompose rapidly. We can remove grindings from site, but this would incur an additional cost.

Other options

Eco plugs. Sometimes it is not possible to use our stump grinder. This may be due to a narrow access. It could also be due to a fence or other structure in close proximity. Steps and walls would also prevent us from accessing the stump using our stump grinder. That’s why many of our customers opt for eco plugs. These are small capsules containing granular glyphosate which is a liquid that dissolves to kill parts of the stump that are still alive. These are placed into drilled holes in the stump, preventing any liquid from leaking out. These can be a much safer, cheaper and more eco-friendly option than traditional liquid tree root killer. The stumps will then naturally decompose over time.

Stump digging. For larger tree stumps, we offer digging up of stumps using our excavator. The pulled stumps can then be mulched and incorporated into the ground.   

Why choose Simpson Arboriculture?

  • Expertise. Our team consists of highly skilled arborists with years of experience in tree surgery and stump removal.
  • Top of the range equipment. We invest in the best equipment to ensure efficient and effective stump removal.
  • Customer satisfaction. We prioritise customer satisfaction, ensuring your garden looks its best after our services.
  • Eco-friendly options. We offer eco plugs as a more eco-friendly alternative for stump treatment when needed.

Don’t let tree stumps blemish the beauty of your garden any longer. Contact Simpson Arboriculture today for a professional stump grinding and stump treatment service. You can give us a call in the office or submit a stump grinding form on our website.