Miscellaneous
Decay & Cavities
Trees with cavities are not uncommon, some tree species develop them more readily than others. Most originate as part of a natural process, although some are inflicted upon a tree by man induced injuries.
In order to evaluate the extent of a cavity, an initial visual tree survey is required, this will determine if the tree needs a more detailed inspection from these results you can decide upon the most appropriate course of action to address the cavity.
Weak Structures
Preventive measures could have been implemented when the tree was a juvenile, failure to adopt pruning techniques such as formative pruning comes with consequences.
Cable Bracing
Cable bracing provides support to weak limbs. Both techniques are commonly used in conjunction with one another.
Non-invasive bracing systems incorporating belt attachments and shock absorbers can be prescribed as opposed to cable bracing.
Epicormic & Basal Growth Removal
Basal Growth Removal Before
Basal Growth Removal After
Trees have dormant buds tucked under their bark. Sometimes, stress triggers these buds to wake up and sprout new branches. This is called epicormic growth if it happens on the main stem, and basal growth if it sprouts from the base of the tree.
Stressors like harsh weather, heavy pruning, or changes in the soil can all cause this. It’s particularly common in certain tree species like linden (lime), oak, willow, and poplar.
While this regrowth might be a natural response, it can be unsightly in gardens and urban areas. Luckily, you can keep things tidy by regularly pruning these shoots to maintain a clear stem and surrounding area.
Ivy Severance
Ivy Severance Before
Ivy Severance After
Ivy is often accused of strangling trees on which it grows. The reality is often less sinister and ivy provides shelter for many forms of wildlife but there may be times when its control is advisable. In the border, ivy’s dense growth can swamp other plants and control here is often needed.
You should consider ivy control if the branch canopy becomes thin and allows sufficient light to enter, the ivy will develop into its arboreal form. Fraxinus (ash) and Larix (larch), are both trees with a naturally thin, open crown so may suffer heavy infestation. For this reason ivy on ash and larch trees is often controlled.
Where ivy may be a problem is with very old or damaged trees. Firstly, its dense evergreen cover may hide cavities or areas of decay. Secondly, it can become an additional weight in the canopy which, in time, could affect stability of the tree, particularly in windy conditions.
When trees are grown for their attractive stem or bark, such as birch and some acers, it is sensible to keep the stems or trunks free from ivy so as not to obscure this key ornamental feature
Prune Trees for Carriageway / Cable Clearance / Street Lighting
Prune Trees from Carriageway Before
Prune Trees from Carriageway After
Overgrown trees can cause issue to the carriageway, street furniture and infrastructure. Obscuring visibility, below the desired height clearance for vehicles using the carriageway and / or cause interference with street furniture and infrastructure.
Pruning trees away from Highways Assets (listed below) can help achieve the desired result and the works are relatively minimalistic in comparison to other operations that could be performed to trees.
- Carriageway
- Lighting columns
- Benches
- Signs
- Bus stops
Prune away from Street Lighting Before
Prune away from Street Lighting After
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