Crown Reductions

Crown reduction generally involves reducing the height and spread of the branches of the tree. This can be for a variety of reasons: aesthetics or to reveal a view, allowing more light absorption through the crown, or to decrease mechanical stresses on the branches by reducing weight and leverage (and subsequent wind loading forces).

Crown Thinning

More often carried out on broad leaved species, crown thinning typically involves removing the smaller branches, normally on the outer section of the crown, to reduce the density, whilst maintaining the shape and size of the tree. This can allow for more light to pass through the tree but can stimulate new inner growth as a response to the increased light levels.

Crown Raising

This is the removal of the lower branches of the tree to increase the height between the branches and the ground. This may be done to allow for access under the tree, which is particularly important along highways and footpaths, where low branches can pose a health and safety risk. A crown raise / crown lift may also be done to increase light levels, or to prevent foliage from blocking or hitting against windows or other structures.

Deadwood Removal

Deadwood is when a tree’s limbs die, often due to natural ageing or other external factors. They then become weak and may fall off, which can pose a risk, particularly in public areas. By pruning out the deadwood, it removes the risk of it falling onto any target below.

Pollarding

Pollarding is the process of removing the upper branches of a tree to encourage new branch growth from the same height on the main stem or principal branches. This will encourage thicker and vigorous stem growth, which can lead to a more aesthetically pleasing tree with a thicker and fuller crown. It is a useful practice if the tree is in a confined space and if left unmanaged, potentially disrupting the growth of other trees and shrubs. In larger trees, pollarding can also reduce any risk of falling branches, reducing the risk of damage or injury.
Once pollarding has begun, it should be carried out on a regular basis, which will be determined by a variety of factors and discussed with you in advance.
Pollarding is usually only recommended on young trees, soon after they have become established, as they are less likely to fall foul of disease and will regrow more quickly.