Trees are a valuable asset. They provide environmental benefits, enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden and can significantly increase the property’s value. Regular tree maintenance is required to keep trees looking their best, and tree lopping is often sought as a quick fix for many property owners. However, this method can harm the trees instead of benefiting them. Fortunately, there are alternatives worth considering.
Tree Lopping and the Risks Involved
Tree lopping is usually done to reduce tree size and improve it’s appearance. It typically involves removing the upper part of a tree and most of the crown, which may include significant foliage.
When performed incorrectly, tree lopping can shock the tree, weakening new growth and even result in dieback as the tree struggles to recover from the foliage removal. It can also cause the tree’s appearance to look unsightly. Thus, while tree lopping may seem like a solution, it can be costly in the long run if not done correctly.
Alternative Tree Maintenance Services
There are alternative tree maintenance services that provide better results while ensuring the tree’s health and longevity. Here are a few of them are:
Tree Pruning
Tree pruning involves carefully removing dead or diseased branches while preserving the tree’s natural growth pattern, overall shape and healthy foliage. It is a more gentle method than tree lopping. It allows for optimal air circulation and light penetration, benefiting the plants beneath the tree. Tree pruning can also increase the tree’s lifespan by protecting it from pests and diseases and minimising potential storm and wind damage.
Crown Reduction
Have your trees become excessively large? Crown reduction is an ideal option for those larger than life trees. Unlike tree lopping, this method involves the precise removal of only a minimal portion of the upper canopy, typically around 15-20%
Branches are reduced back to at least 1/3 of the diameter, ensuring the tree continues flourishing. Crown reduction also maintains the tree’s natural appearance, avoiding an imbalanced or lopsided look.
It’s important to attend to large trees as they can prevent sunlight from reaching lower areas and can become problematic for structures, roads and pathways.
Tree Removal
While tree preservation and using the most environmentally responsible tree maintenance options is always our focus, sometimes, certain issues make saving trees impossible. Examples are major structural weakness, falling debris and dead or dying trees. In such cases, tree removal is the best option.
The method requires thorough inspection by our highly trained arborists to ensure it is safe to complete the process. It involves cutting down the tree and gathering the removed parts, which may entail using tools, such as saws, pruning equipment, or even cranes for lifting larger trees.
Although trees are removed, they can still contribute to the environment by processing the wood and leaves through a woodchipper and transforming them into forest mulch, a byproduct that helps keep soil, plants and trees healthy and protected.
What to Ensure when Opting Tree Lopping as a Last Resort:
We generally discourage tree lopping, but it may be necessary as a last resort in some cases. If you choose to proceed with tree lopping, it is crucial to engage the services of a qualified arborist. Arborists possess the necessary expertise and knowledge to perform this service safely and effectively, minimising any potential damage while preserving the tree’s aesthetics and overall health.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.
