Tree Operations
A short guide to some of our tree operations
General Pruning
Each branch shall be removed using the triple cut method where other methods may incur unnecessary damage to the tree. All final cuts will be made at the branch collar, with the branch collar remaining intact. Large pruning cuts on trees require particular attention with regard to the branch collar. Under no circumstances will any “smoothing or flush cuts” be made. All cuts will be made in such a manner as set out in the guidelines of BS3998: 1989.
Heavy branches will be removed in sections and under cut to avoid tearing the bark and lowered by ropes and slings to avoid damage to the tree and its surroundings. We shall ensure that all sections fall to the ground in a controlled manner. Extreme care will be taken when using chainsaws to remove epicormic shoots so as not to damage the main stem or stems of the tree.
Dead, diseased or damaged branches will be pruned back to the corresponding branch collar. In the case of crossed rubbing branches, the branches will be assessed, pruned or removed accordingly, whilst ensuring a reasonable overall shape is maintained. Bark wounds are to have any broken, splintered wood and or damaged bark removed.
Re-pollarding
This consists of removing all branches and limbs down to the original pollard points.
Under no circumstances must any original pollard points be removed unless diseased.
Crown Thinning
The reduction in density of foliage will be reduced throughout the whole crown by a percentage of 10% to 25%.
Trees will be evenly thinned as set out in the guidelines of BS3998: 1989.
Crown Lifting
Lifting of the crown consists of the removal of the lower branches from the main stem or branch system up to a specified height or line indicated. In particular if the branches are causing an obstruction to properties, street furniture, pedestrians or vehicles.
Removal of Epicormic Growth and Suckers
Epicormic growth is any amount of shoots arising from activated buds situated at the bole of the tree and on the main stem(s), the base of the crown. Sucker growths are shoots arising either from the bole of the tree or from roots belonging to a tree. Epicormic growth and suckers will be removed or thinned as required by use of handsaw, secateurs or, if used with extreme care, by chainsaw.
Crown Reduction
Crown reduction will reduce the overall height and spread of the tree crown by a specified percentage, by shortening the branches to suitable growth points to maintain as far as possible the natural form and proportion of the species.
The operation of crown reduction is a matter of judicious pruning and will not be constructed as lopping or topping. All branches will be cut back to a growth point and all final cuts should be made at an angle so the tree incurs the least possible injury in accordance with the latest recognised pruning practices as set out in the guidelines of BS3998: 1989.
Clearance Pruning
We will comply with the Highways Act 1980 Section 154 in removal of all such branches. Growth shall be removed to ensure a clearance of 2.4 metres over footways, 5 metres over carriageways, 1 metre from all street lighting, traffic signs, traffic lights, street name plates etc., and 2 metres from windows or adjacent property.
Trees will be evenly thinned throughout the whole crown as set out in the guidelines of BS3998: 1989.
Straight Felling
Straight felling will be limited to such situations which pose no risk of damage to any property whatsoever, including specially prepared grass areas. Trees to be straight felled will be guided by the use of pulling ropes/cables and felling wedges as necessary to ensure the correct direction of controlled fell. Where a large or heavy main stem of a tree is to be straight felled, we will use brash and crash matting to protect the ground.
Formative Pruning
Formative or corrective pruning will be carried out to young trees up to 5m in height with the objective to develop a tree into a well-shaped and balanced specimen and must be carried in accordance with the nature of the tree. Weak, crossing or dead branches will be removed. A singular leader will be developed where appropriate. Crowns may be lifted, thinned and reduced in size, dependent upon specie. Where the tree is still staked and tied, broken stakes/ties will be replaced/adjusted or completely removed if tree is of sufficient size to support itself.
Section Felling
Section felling is a technique used when the tree cannot be felled safely. We often use the hand held section way of working, this allows us complete control of where the brash is thrown. Ideal for very small drop areas.
Trees to be section felled can be dismantled with the use of rigging systems or speed lining. All cut off sections are to be either lowered to the ground or thrown by hand in a controlled manner.
Tree & Shrub Planting
We provide a comprehensive tree & shrub replanting service.
If you’ve had trees or shrubs removed or you’re just looking for something to add to your garden a great option is to replant, great for the environment and for future generations to enjoy.
All our trees and shrubs are supplied by Old Hall Nurseries.
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