Tree Surgery Terminology - Pruning

Q: I have trees in my garden that have gotten out of hand; they require pruning by a professional tree surgeon - how do I describe the job in hand when enquiring?

A professional tree surgeon will always need to visit you to view the trees in question; this is so that they can make an accurate assessment and provide you with a valid quotation. Any tree surgeon you haven't used before who quotes over the phone without coming to assess the work is questionable, in the opinion of the tree care team here at Bawden Tree Care. It is, however, useful to understand the terminology used by tree surgeons so that, when a professional does come along to compile a quote, you are familiar with the terms used and can understand a little better the work that's required.

It's important to remember that all tree pruning has an effect upon the needs and health of a tree and, whilst customers' requests for pruning are responded to, it is vital that the tree surgeon takes into consideration the impact on the tree that results from any work undertaken. This is also why it is vital that tree surgery is carried out to the British Standard 3998 'Recommendations for Tree Works', which specifies what should be done, how, and by whom. So, here is our layman's guide to the pruning terminology that you are likely to require:

Crown lifting - Removing some, or all, of the lower branches of a tree's crown. In public areas, this is usually completed for safety reasons, for example, when the tree in question is located near footpaths or highways. In domestic gardens, it helps increase light shed onto the area.

Crown cleaning - Removing dead or diseased branches that have the potential to cause injury or accidents. This operation is generally only carried out where there is risk to the public, as dead wood typically has a positive ecological benefit when left on the tree.

Pollarding - Pruning back branches from an early stage of the tree's life and regularly cutting back to the same point at intervals of one to five years. This creates pollard heads, which store energy.

Root pruning - Cutting away at roots where they have the potential to cause damage to paths or foundations of buildings. This activity is likely to threaten the tree's health and ultimate stability, so felling may well be the only alternative.

If you're to ask us, we would say that the best option is to prune your trees annually, which prevents the need for major intervention by a tree surgeon, and ensures that they stay healthy and stable. If, however, your trees haven't been pruned regularly and need a clean up, contact a qualified tree surgeon and request they visit to assess the work required and provide a quotation. 

If you are interested in the services that Bawden Tree Care offers, get in touch via. mobile phone, e-mail, our online contact form, or even feel free to pop in to speak to one of the team - we are open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 5:30pm.