FAQ's
When is the best time to prune trees?
The best time to prune trees typically depends on the type of tree and your goals for pruning. Here are general guidelines:
- Late Winter to Early Spring (Dormant Season)
For most deciduous trees (those that lose their leaves in winter), pruning during the dormant season (typically late winter to early spring) is ideal. This is before new growth begins and while the tree is not actively growing. Pruning at this time helps minimise stress to the tree, reduces the risk of disease, and allows you to see the trees structure clearly. - Summer (For Certain Purposes)
Some trees, especially those that are prone to disease or pest issues, may be pruned in summer. Summer pruning can help slow down growth, and is often done to control the size or shape of a tree. - After Flowering (For Flowering Trees)
If you have flowering trees, such as lilacs or magnolias, it’s best to prune them right after they bloom. This allows the tree to set buds for the next flowering season.
Avoid pruning in the fall, as the tree is preparing for dormancy, and pruning during this time can cause unnecessary stress or increase susceptibility to diseases.
Always consider the specific needs of the tree species you are working with for the best results.
How do I know if my tree is dying?
To determine if your tree is dying, look for several key signs:
- Leaf discolouration or dieback
If the leaves turn yellow, brown, or show irregular spots or streaks, especially outside of normal seasonal changes, it could be a sign of disease, pest infestation, or environmental stress. A tree with large sections of dead or brown leaves, or significant dieback in branches, may be in trouble. - Bark issues
Cracked, peeling, or missing bark, especially if it’s widespread, might indicate a tree is struggling. Sometimes this can be a sign of disease or pests like borers.
If the bark is soft or mushy to the touch, this may suggest rot. - Fungal growth or mushrooms
Fungal growth around the base or along the trunk can indicate internal decay, often from rot caused by disease or pests. - Sparse canopy or no new growth
A tree that is not producing new growth or has a sparse canopy of leaves may be in decline.
If new growth is significantly smaller or weak compared to usual, this could indicate stress. - Wilting or drooping branches
If branches are wilting, drooping, or losing flexibility, this might signal poor water uptake or root health, possibly due to disease or root rot. - Cracks or holes in the trunk
Deep cracks or holes in the trunk or large limbs can suggest structural weaknesses, often caused by disease, pests, or internal rot. - Excessive sap or oozing
If sap is oozing from the trunk or branches, it might indicate a problem, such as cankers or insect infestations. - Pest infestations
If you notice an unusual amount of insects, particularly boring insects like beetles or caterpillars, it can be a sign that your tree is under attack.
If your noticing multiple symptoms or the tree seems to be in rapid decline, it might be worth consulting an arborist to diagnose the issue and determine the best course of action. Sometimes, early intervention can help save the tree.
What are English native trees?
Here are some examples of native trees to the United Kingdom (England):
- Oak (Quercus robur)
One of the most iconic native trees, known for its strength and longevity. It supports a wide variety of wildlife, from insects to birds. - Silver Birch (Betula pendula)
Recognizable by its white, peeling bark, the silver birch is a pioneer species that grows in poor soils and is commonly found in woodlands and heathlands. - Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)
Often found in woodlands, hornbeams have smooth, grey bark and serrated leaves. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types. - Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)
The only native pine species in the UK, the Scots pine is found in many woodlands, particularly in Scotland, and is crucial for wildlife. - Ash (Fraxinus excelsior)
Ash trees are found in woodlands and hedgerows and are known for their distinctive, compound leaves. Unfortunately, ash trees in the UK are threatened by Ash Dieback disease. - Elm (Ulmus procera)
Historically widespread, elms were once a common sight in British landscapes, but Dutch elm disease has severely impacted their population. However, some disease-resistant varieties are being planted. - Holly (Ilex aquifolium)
Known for its spiky leaves and red berries, holly is often seen in woodlands and hedgerows, especially in the winter months. - Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia)
Also known as mountain ash, this tree is often found in hilly areas. It has clusters of red berries and is important for supporting birds and insects. - Yew (Taxus baccata)
A slow-growing evergreen tree often found in churchyards or ancient woodlands. Yew is known for its dense foliage and is long-lived. - Field Maple (Acer campestre)
A small, deciduous tree often found in hedgerows, field maples are important for providing food for wildlife.
These trees are all well-suited to the British climate and have adapted over thousands of years to thrive in the local ecosystem. Many of them are also valuable for supporting wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals.
Why do you have to remove trees?
Trees may need to be removed for various reasons, including:
- Health Issues or Disease
If a tree is diseased or infected (e.g., by fungi, pests, or rot), it can become a threat to its health and the surrounding environment. Some diseases or pests can weaken a tree to the point where it’s no longer viable or safe. - Structural Damage
Over time, a tree can develop structural weaknesses, such as cracks, splits, or weakened branches. If the tree poses a risk of falling or dropping large branches, it might need to be removed for safety reasons. - Risk to Property or People
A tree growing too close to buildings, power lines, roads, or walkways may need to be removed to prevent damage to property or to reduce the risk of injury from falling branches or the tree itself. - Overcrowding or Competition
In forests or woodlands, trees may need to be removed to prevent overcrowding, which can limit growth opportunities for other plants or trees. This is often part of forest management practices to maintain a balanced ecosystem. - Tree Death
When a tree has died and is no longer living, it may become a hazard. Dead trees can attract pests and diseases, and their weakened state makes them more likely to fall. - Construction or Development
Sometimes, trees must be removed to make way for new buildings, roads, or infrastructure projects. This is often necessary for urban development or land use changes. - Invasive Species
If a tree species is non-native and invasive, it may be removed to protect the local ecosystem from being overrun by an aggressive species that threatens native plants and wildlife. - Root Damage
Trees with invasive or damaged root systems can become unstable. In some cases, a trees roots may interfere with underground utilities, foundations, or sewage systems, requiring removal to prevent damage to infrastructure. - Aesthetic or Space Concerns
In some cases, trees may be removed simply for aesthetic purposes or to make space for other landscaping or gardening needs. This is often done in residential areas.
While removing a tree is sometimes necessary, it is generally considered a last resort. When possible, efforts are made to prune, treat, or relocate trees to preserve them and maintain ecological balance. Consulting with a certified arborist is recommended before deciding to remove a tree.
What’s an arborist?
An arborist is a professional who specializes in the care, maintenance, and management of trees. Arborists are trained in various aspects of tree biology, health, and safety, and they use their expertise to ensure that trees are properly cared for, healthy, and safe for the environment and surrounding areas.
Some of the tasks an arborist may perform include:
- Tree Pruning
Cutting branches and foliage to improve tree health, shape, or safety. - Tree Removal
Safely removing dead, diseased, or hazardous trees, often using specialised equipment. - Tree Planting
Advising on the best species for specific locations and planting trees correctly. - Tree Health Assessment
Diagnosing and treating diseases, pests, or damage affecting trees. - Cabling and Bracing
Installing supports to prevent trees from falling or to stabilise weak branches. - Stump Removal
Grinding or removing tree stumps after a tree has been felled.
How much does it cost to take a tree down?
Are Oak trees Protected?
In the UK, oak trees (particularly the English oak, Quercus robur) are not automatically protected by law, but there are specific regulations and protections that could apply depending on the context:
- Protection under Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) can be applied to individual trees, groups of trees, or woodlands, including oak trees. If an oak tree is covered by a TPO, it cannot be removed, topped, or lopped without first obtaining permission from the local council.
A TPO can be issued for an oak tree if it is deemed to have significant value to the local environment, heritage, or landscape. - Conservation Areas
If an oak tree is located in a conservation area (a designated area with special architectural or historical significance), special permission is needed to carry out work on the tree. Even if its not under a TPO, local authorities may impose restrictions on tree removal or pruning in these areas. - Protected Species
While oak trees themselves aren’t directly protected, they provide habitats for many species that are protected by law, such as certain birds (e.g., owls, bats), insects, and fungi. Disturbing these species or their habitats could lead to legal consequences under wildlife protection laws. - Planning Permission
If an oak tree is on land that is subject to development or other changes, planning permission may be required, and the oak tree could be considered as part of the environmental assessment. In some cases, developers may be required to preserve certain mature trees.
In Summary:
While oak trees themselves aren’t automatically protected by law, certain conditions such as a TPO or location within a conservation area can offer legal protection. Always check with your local council before removing or pruning an oak tree to ensure compliance with relevant laws. If in doubt, its a good idea to consult an arborist or a local authority to avoid legal issues.
What's a TPO?
A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal protection placed on a tree, group of trees, or a woodland by a local planning authority in the UK. The purpose of a TPO is to prevent the unnecessary removal, damage, or destruction of trees that are considered to be of significant value to the local environment, landscape, or community.
- Key points about TPOs
Legal Protection: A TPO makes it illegal to cut down, uproot, top, lop, or damage the tree without prior approval from the local council or planning authority. Fines or penalties can be imposed if a TPO is violated. - Reasons for Issuance
TPOs are typically issued when a tree is deemed to have special significance, such as its age, size, appearance, historical or cultural value, or because it provides a habitat for wildlife. - Application to Individual Trees or Groups
A TPO can be applied to a single tree, a group of trees, or even a woodland. It covers both mature trees and those in need of care or attention. - How to Know if a Tree Has a TPO
Check with the Local Council: Local planning authorities keep records of TPOs, so you can contact them to find out if a tree is protected. - TPO Notice
The local council will usually notify the owner of a tree if a TPO is applied. If your considering working on a tree and suspect it may be under a TPO, its important to check with the council first or allow us to entire with the council. - What You Can and Can’t Do
If a tree is under a TPO, you cannot:
- Cut, prune, or remove it without permission.
- Destroy or damage the trees roots.
- You can apply for permission to carry out work on the tree (e.g., pruning, removing deadwood, or removing the tree entirely if its dead, diseased, or dangerous).
In short, a TPO serves to safeguard trees from inappropriate or harmful changes, and anyone wishing to make alterations to a tree under a TPO must seek the necessary permissions from the local council.
