When is the best time of year to have work done to my trees and hedges?
Scroll down to find the answer to this tree surgery related question.
in short...
It is recommended that trees are worked on after leaf fall and before bud burst, however is not true for all species and we can give you a written report and recommendation for your specific trees and hedges.
the full answer...
It is recommended that trees are worked on after leaf fall and before bud burst. This however is not true for all species so we would prefer to look at each tree individually and give you a written report and recommendation for timing the necessary work. Some examples of trees requiring work at other times are Cherry, Plum and related trees (Prunus species). These should be pruned soon after flowering to reduce the risk of bacterial infection. Maple and Birch should not be pruned in the spring to avoid ‘bleeding’ (exuding sap), which although not considered damaging can be unsightly while Magnolia and Walnut should only be pruned in high summer. Most common species of hedges can be pruned any time of the year but again we would confirm this after inspection and always consider the environmental impact in terms of nesting birds etc before commencing.
As a rule of thumb, a tree’s root system extends as far underground as its canopy does over ground. This can be distorted by regular or severe pruning, but it is generally possible to manage a tree’s root system underground by regularly pruning or reducing the canopy above ground because a tree does not need to expend energy developing its root system if it does not have to support a large canopy above ground.
Whatever time of year it is, our tree surgeons are here to help! So if you need tree surgery in Wandsworth, a tree surgeon for Wimbledon, or you need work anywhere else in South West London, get in touch today.
Other questions and answers you may find useful
General Tree Surgery Questions
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Do I need permission to have work carried out on my trees?
It is essential to consider Tree Preservation Orders when planning some work. Searches can be made online or we can undertake these for you if you wish….
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Why do I need to employ a tree surgeon?
Tree surgery is a highly skilled and potentially very dangerous occupation, not to mention the significant risk of damaging your trees……
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How much do tree surgeons charge?
Our tree surgeon costs do not have a minimum charge, unlike other London tree surgeons, and we do not have an hourly charge, as each tree and site is assessed on an individual basis. Our assurance is that the work will be carried out by our qualified tree surgeons, to your satisfaction, for the cost quoted in advance….
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Can trees damage my property?
Trees should be regarded as real assets to our homes, however, occasionally they can cause problems to nearby (about 1.5m) structures. If you are concerned then contact us for professional advice. …
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When is the best time of year to have work done to my trees and hedges?
It is recommended that trees are worked on after leaf fall and before bud burst, however is not true for all species and we can give you a written report and recommendation for your specific trees and hedges….
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Do mature trees need special care?
Regular maintenance ensures continued health and preventing a problem costs less than curing one once it has developed, whatever the age of the tree….
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How can I tell if I have a dangerous tree?
It is a property owner’s responsibility to ensure his/her trees are in safe condition. Assessments should be done by qualified arboricultural consultants….
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What can I do if my neighbour’s trees are causing me problems?
You can prune or remove any branches on your side as long as you don’t damage the tree. TPOs may need to be considered. You must also offer the debris back to the owner….
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Will the presence of birds or bats make any difference to my tree work?
If any type of bird is nesting in a tree or hedge then it is legally protected, so long as the nest is in use. This can delay work until the nesting season is over….
Specific to Take A Bough Questions
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Have you tree surgeon insurance and qualifications?
All of our site teams have the required National Proficiency Test Council qualifications and each tree surgeon carries a card displaying their completed qualifications. And for tree surgeon insurance, we have both public liability and employers’ liability insurance ensuring property and people are covered….
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How much does a tree surgeon cost?
While it may be possible in some circumstances to offer a rough estimate of the cost of tree surgery based on a photograph and a description of the access, it is generally necessary for our qualified tree surgeons to make a site visit, not only to view the tree and assess the access, but also to discuss the options open to you….
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How long will I have to wait to have the work done after I have accepted the quotation?
We will always try to get work booked in as soon as possible and will make every effort to accommodate your preferences….
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My garden has no side access and limited space, how will that affect the work on my tree?
It is always possible to remove or prune or reduce trees of any size in limited spaces and we have many years of experience in doing so in your area……
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Can I use the wood chippings from my trees?
Yes you can, though some chipped trees are unsuitable for garden use. We can advise you of the suitability of your specific trees….