Weight Reductions

A weight reduction is applied to a specific limb that has been assessed as ‘at risk of failure’. Whether there is a fault or wound near the base of the limb or purely due to its size, the idea is to remove weight and sail effect to reduce the likelihood of failure. Whilst the primary focus of a weight reduction is safety, it is also very effective in preventing large trees from tearing themselves apart and can therefore help extend the lifespan of veteran trees.

Deadwood Removal

Deadwood is removed from the canopy for aesthetic and risk mitigation purposes. Depending on where a tree is situated, this may or may not be necessary and it should be noted that as deadwood is prime habitat for insects, leaving it in place where safe to do so, will have a positive effect on biodiversity. For this reason, it may be recommended that large deadwood be reduced rather than removed entirely.

Formative Pruning

In the years following the planting of a tree, some formative pruning will be required. This is to establish the main scaffolding structure, on which the mature tree will be based. Whilst the importance of such pruning may not be immediately apparent, the long term benefits are significant; with the need for large pruning wounds being avoided by removing unwanted branches early on.