To check a tree’s health, inspect its leaves, bark, and structure. Healthy trees have full canopies, flexible twigs, and solid bark. Look for dead limbs, fungus at the base, cracks, or early leaf drop—all of which may signal disease or decline.
Yes, to your boundary only. UK law allows you to cut branches or roots on your side, but you can’t trespass or damage the tree. If the tree is protected by a TPO or in a conservation area, you must first get council approval.
Start by discussing it politely. If overhanging branches or roots cause damage, you may trim them to your boundary. If unresolved, you can involve your local council, especially if the tree breaches safety or legal boundaries.
Late winter or early spring is best for most UK trees. This avoids active growing seasons and reduces stress. Always avoid pruning during nesting season (March–August) and in autumn, when decay organisms are more active.
Trees like Amelanchier, crabapple, Japanese maple, and rowan are ideal. These species grow slowly, rarely outgrow their space, and require minimal pruning or root control. They're also visually appealing throughout the seasons.
Use guards, mulch, and stakes. Tree guards deter animals, mulch retains moisture and shields roots, and stakes help support the trunk during wind. Regular checks for pests like aphids or caterpillars are also important in early growth years.
Yes, if the tree poses risk. Councils are responsible for public tree safety. If a tree is leaning, dead, or has fallen branches, report it. They will usually inspect and arrange removal if it’s deemed unsafe.
A large tree may take a full day to remove safely. This includes climbing, dismantling, rigging, and cleaning up. Time varies based on height, width, access to the site, and the presence of nearby hazards such as buildings or power lines.
<strong data-start="2547" data-end="2589">Stump grinding is optional but useful.</strong> It removes the visible stump below ground level, prevents regrowth, reduces trip hazards, and clears the area for future planting or landscaping. Otherwise, stumps can rot slowly over time.
Tree removal usually costs £400–£1,200. The price depends on tree size, location, access, and risks involved. Small trees may cost less, while large or dangerous trees require more labour and equipment, increasing the cost.
Yes, trimming can manage growth without harming the tree. Techniques like crown thinning or reduction allow light and air in, while preserving health and structure. Improper cutting, however, can stress or weaken the tree.
You must notify the council before carrying out any work on trees in conservation areas. You usually need to give six weeks’ notice. Unauthorized pruning or removal can result in fines, even if the tree doesn’t have a TPO.
Late winter to early spring is best for pruning apple trees. This encourages healthy growth and fruiting. Summer pruning may also help manage size but avoid pruning during frost or active flowering periods.
Prune fig trees in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Light summer pruning can also control shape. Avoid cutting too heavily at once—figs respond well to gradual shaping over multiple seasons.
Globally, around 15 billion trees are cut down annually, according to estimates. In the UK, felling is usually regulated and balanced with replanting, especially under forestry or environmental schemes.
Drill holes and apply herbicide is one method. Alternatively, cover the stump to block light, or use natural decay. Grinding is faster, but chemical methods can work over months if you want the stump to break down gradually.
Most jobs take 2–6 hours, depending on the task. Small pruning jobs can take under half a day, while full tree removals or complex work may take longer. Access, size, and safety concerns can increase the time needed.
Look for signs of decline. These include large dead branches, fungus at the base, leaning, hollow trunk, or severe storm damage. A certified arborist can assess whether the tree is dangerous, dying, or beyond recovery.
The tree owner is responsible. If the tree is on your property, you must maintain it. If it's on council land, the local authority is responsible. Trees near shared boundaries may require mutual agreements or legal guidance.
Yes, many professionals do. Emergency tree services are available 24/7 in many areas, particularly after storms or accidents. Councils also respond to urgent public tree issues. Immediate action may prevent further damage.
