Information
There is a wide range of management methods available to tree owners. Factors such as the trees themselves, infrastructure on site, budget or personal preferences means providing accurate and relevant information for managers' requires a tailored approach but some of the more common questions are answered here.
Frequently asked questions
My tree has got a hole in it, is it dying?
Probably not. Decay and restructuring is part of most native trees' life cycles, depending on where the decay is, what type of decay and importantly its extent. Pockets of decay or exposed heartwood are not always a cause for major concern but decay at advanced stages or at areas of high load on a tree can result in critical failure.
My Tree has a nest in it, what do i do?
Congratulations! Depending on what time of year and what species is nesting there can be some restrictions but canopy mapping carefully documents any wildlife habitation signals and provides managers with information on sympathetic management options.
Can I get more light without removing the tree?
Depends on species but yes. Internal crown thinning and tip reductions are viable on most trees, directions for re-structuring a canopy can keep balance, direct future growth a manage shade levels
Are these roots interferring with this wall?
While I would have to defer to someone in the construction trade about the structural stability of walls, common root/infrastructure interactions can be identified and ground inspections can assess the root form, extent, health and structure.
Can you look at at the tree over the fence?
Conditionally yes, Visual surveys can make limited assessments of interboundary trees as is relevant, Detail of the survey will be dependent on access conditions.
How often do trees need inspecting?
Depending on the potential risks it poses, UK courts have stated 5 years is the minimum but high risk trees or where failure would be extremely hazardous yearly is due diligence. For a full health report a tree needs two inspections (summer and winter) and then a reasonable re-inspection period is decided then.
On the day
Gardens and green space are a great joy in many people's lives, the ecological and environmental interaction around trees is a rich and complex subject. Information and advice is available on a range of subjects on hedgehogs to house martins