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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.
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Crown lifting involves the removal of lower branches to achieve the required height clearance from ground level to the first branch. Alternatively, this could be to clear obstructions to lawns, foot paths,
highways, roof tops and properties.
The image shows a 200-year-old Yew tree with low hanging secondary branches. Our professional Arborists removed branches to the required height to improve access.
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.
Branches die back for several reasons. Generally, this will be a natural process within the tree’s development and the ageing process but can also be an indication to the tree’s health.
Dead wood can pose an unacceptable risk to people and property and should be addressed with the appropriate action for the tree’s location. Dead wooding is the term used by Tree Surgeons for the removal of said branches down to a small diameter size.
The images show a 120-year-old Wellingtonia, located within a School playground. A Visual Tree Assessment carried out by Cheltenham Tree Services Ltd indicated and actioned the removal of all dead wood down to 10cm in diameter.
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.
Cable Bracing is the terminology used by Consultants or Arborists to install a system of cables to provide added structural support, increase the stability and safety to biomechanical parts of a tree.
Why do we brace trees?
The implementation of a bracing system is no guarantee but will give added peace of mind that you have taken all steps to help prevent a failure. Our skilled and experienced Arborists can advise you on all aspects of cable bracing.
The images show a Cobra Bracing system installed by Cheltenham Tree Services on a multi- stemmed Incense Cedar. The bracing was implemented for added stability on several stems with relevant dysfunctions.
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.
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.