Crown Management

Crown Reduction

Crown reductions reduce the ‘sail’ area of the tree; this in turn, alleviates weight and wind loading stresses on the branch structure, and the tree itself. This operation is recommended or requested for trees which are to be retained but may be growing too large for their location or may have biomechanical structural faults.

The images show the before and after of a Copper Beech tree which was outgrowing its location. Covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), we worked closely with Cheltenham Borough Councils Tree Officer throughout the project.

Crown Thinning

In crown thinning, a certain percentage of the trees branch structure is removed (mainly the secondary branches), retaining an even density, resulting in well-spaced and balanced branch structures after the operation.

Crown thinning can reduce the end weight carriage by dense branches, minimising the loading on the main stem attachment. The thinning process can also alleviate shade problems.

The image shows a 100-year-old Oak Tree with a dense crown, which was obscuring light to the property. Our expert Arborist engaged with the client to discuss their requirements before putting forward a schedule of works to crown thin this tree by 15% and remove the Ivy.

Pollarding

Pollarding is a term given to the process in which the main branch systems of trees are pruned heavily to short stubs. This promotes vigorous young regrowth from the stumpy branches and is often used in urban areas to reduce the crown size of old street trees.

Most deciduous broad-leaved trees can be pollarded. The key is that the species must be capable of producing what is known botanically as ‘epicormic growth’. The common term is ‘water shoots’. These vigorous growths are sometimes produced spontaneously but are instigated into mass production by pruning back the upper growth. Dormant buds lower down the stems are triggered into producing vigorous stems, as energy stored in the roots is re-directed. Most Conifers do not possess this ability and are therefore unsuitable.

The before and after images show a row of 9 x Lime trees, located in front of a property, with Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). The trees have been historically managed by pollarding and this management reduces the risk of trees outgrowing their location.

The image shows a Holm Oak tree which is located along a busy road. A crown reduction was undertaken, of 2.5m on the roadside to reduce back extended and drooping branches. A crown lift was also carried out, up to 5.2m over the road and 3m over the foot path.

Roadside Tree Management

Trees and vegetation which overhang the highway, are the responsibility of the owner. Section 152 of the Highways Act (1980) allows the council to serve notice, informing the owners that they need to clear the obstruction.

There should be a clearance of 5.2m from the road surface to the overhanging branches. They should also be cut back sufficiently from the edge of the carriageway to allow clearance for wing mirrors.
Branches and vegetation that impede footpaths should be cut back to the height of 2.5m and at least 1.5m in width, or back to your boundary.

Under the occupiers Liability Act, tree owners have a common law duty of care to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of others.

Cheltenham Tree Services Ltd can provide professional advice by competent Arborists on trees adjacent to the highways. We can help with regular inspections, work schedules and implementing works.