Tree surgeons are frequently called out to domestic properties where trees have overtaken gardens. In some circumstances, the position and extent of the root spread could have serious implications on the foundations of the property and the surrounding plant life but in most cases the tree has simply become unsightly or is blocking out the sun, plummeting the garden in shade. Contrary to popular belief, a tree which has outgrown its surroundings doesn’t always need to be felled and a good regular management system will ensure it doesn’t cause any problems in the future.
A qualified tree surgeon can provide advice on what the necessary management system should entail and carry out trimming work to reduce the size of the tree according to the client’s requirements. If the over-sized tree needs to be felled for safety reasons or due to its proximity to a property, tree surgeons can carry out sectional felling which basically means removing parts of the tree slowly to avoid damage to property.
If a tree is causing too much shadow over a property and garden, a tree surgeon can carry out a combination of crown thinning to reduce the leafing density and crown lifting which means removing some of the limbs to bring more light into the garden. Drastic crown reduction is best avoided as it will usually prompt speedy re-growth and place added stress on the tree which can lead to decay. In this situation, it’s always best to consult an experienced tree surgeon rather than tackling the job on a DIY basis as a tree specialist will minimise any damage to the tree and give it the best chance of thriving in the future. Also, by employing an expert the on-going maintenance bill is likely to be less in the long-run than if you’re forced to call out a tree surgeon to repair any mistakes. The sooner you do this the better as the longer an outsized tree is left, the harder it will be to prune.
Crown thinning will usually involve up to 30% of the branches and is best carried out in phases so that an assessment can be made of the effect on the tree before work continues. The height at which this kind of work is undertaken means it should always be carried out by a professional to protect personal safety.
