Apple Tree Pruning: A Guide to Perfect Timing

Expert insight into the best time to prune an apple tree; why you should prune an apple tree, and how to identify common diseases during apple tree pruning.

The apple tree is not native to the UK, yet it has become a very popular addition to the English garden. With more than 7,500 cultivated varieties worldwide, the apple tree really does provide fruit for every taste, whether it’s being eaten naturally, baked, cooked or used to make cider.

The apple tree, known by its botanical name of malus domestica and also referred to as ‘Discovery’, is a small to medium sized tree that produces beautiful flowers in the spring and fruit that can be either ornamental or edible in the autumn. Growing only to a maximum of 8 metres but often less, this tree enjoys full sun and regular pruning.

Why prune an apple tree?

There are two key reasons for pruning an apple tree. One is to give next year’s fruit harvest a boost, and the other is to enhance this year’s crop. An apple tree that has been neglected will stop producing fruit and is likely to become unmanageable and unattractive.

When you prune a tree, you allow more air and sunlight to reach the fruit. This results in better fruit sweetness and increased fruit size as well as improved colour and much more straightforward harvesting. It will also reduce the threat of pests and disease. The fact you are able to see more with less foliage to contend with will help you spot any issues early on helps with this, as does a light and airy environment, as opposed to a damp and dark one.

Removing new shoots from an apple tree will lead to a greater harvest in the year that follows. The tree will, as a result of the pruning, be encouraged to produce even more fruiting spurs.

Your aim when pruning an apple tree is to take out the old to stimulate the new, and to create an open centre to the tree for better air and light penetration. Basically you are thinning out the tree, focusing on areas where the growth has become more crowded.

Care with apple tree pruning

You’ll need to take care not to prune any more than 20 per cent of the canopy each year otherwise you’ll see upright branches called watershoots sprouting. These serve no purpose and will not produce fruit or flowers.

You should always avoid pruning off larger limbs due to the risk of decay. Anything that is over 10cm in diameter should generally be left alone. The method and timing of pruning does however vary depending on the rootstock and type of growth form, i.e. whether it’s a bush tree or being trained in a restrictive form such as an espalier, cordon or pyramid, so be sure to consult the appropriate instructions for your particular type and form of apple tree.

When is the best time to prune an apple tree?

Untrained apple trees should be pruned every year, between November and March before the first leaves start to appear.

Trained apple trees on the other hand tend to benefit from summer pruning. Never attempt to prune a weak looking apple tree though, because when you take away the foliage, you remove the tree’s food source. Leave well alone until the tree gains strength.

For healthy trained apple trees, pruning is best carried out in July and August, although very advanced trees can be pruned earlier in the summer.

What to look for when pruning an apple tree

Apple trees are susceptible to various diseases and pests. Look out for shrivelled fruit clinging onto the shoots (brown rot) and ensure these are pruned out. Also look out for dark, flaky, shrunken patches on branches (apple canker); again cut out the affected parts but do not remove major limbs. Brown, shrivelled blossoms and die back of flowered shoot tips are signs of blossom wilt. If you see lots of dead branches then the tree may be suffering from honey fungus and is likely to need professional attention from a qualified tree surgeon.

Tree Preservation Orders

Never go ahead with any tree work without first checking whether there is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place. If this is the case then permission must be sought for the works which can take up to eight weeks to be provided. Additionally, if the tree is located in a conservation area, permission must be obtained before commencing works of any nature.

The importance of apple tree pruning expertise

Apple tree pruning is quite a complex undertaking. Pruning needs to be tailored for optimum fruit harvest and not all trees are suitable for certain training forms. Unless you are aware of the cropping habit of the tree, you should not proceed any further.

It is, unfortunately, fairly easy to thwart an apple tree’s growth and fruit producing capabilities through inappropriate pruning. In this guide we have merely scratched the surface when it comes to apple tree pruning.

Apple trees can live as long as 50 years, but only if they are well cared for. They also make beautiful addition to any garden or open space, and will produce delicious fruit providing they remain healthy. If this is what you really want to achieve, it is advisable to seek professional assistance from a qualified tree surgeon when it comes to the annual pruning of the tree.

If you have an apple tree on your land that needs pruning, why not contact Tree Works? As fully qualified and extensively experienced tree surgeons, we are able to offer specialist knowledge and skill in all aspects of apple tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, give us a call on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

Oak Tree Pruning: Getting the Timing Right

Expert insight into the best time to prune an oak tree; the advantages of oak tree pruning, and how to avoid the risk of spreading disease and harming the tree.

The great English oak is possibly the best known tree in Britain, as well as the most prevalent. If you have an oak tree on your land then you will know only too well the heights they can grow to: often up to 20 metres but sometimes this can double to 40 metres.

Why prune an oak tree?

It’s a beautiful tree without a doubt and supports a huge range of wildlife, but the oak does require a fair amount of attention to keep it strong, healthy and attractive. Failure to take good care of your oak and allowing it to grow uncontrollably could result in it becoming diseased and very dangerous.

The importance of regular pruning therefore cannot be over-estimated, particularly as the canopies can become extremely expansive and in doing so will often block light and views.

And then there is the matter of the strong, heavy branches which are prone to shedding if not regularly managed: something that could pose a risk of injury or property damage.

So, when is best to approach the job of pruning an oak tree?

When is the best time to prune an oak tree?

The answer to this question depends on the age of the oak tree.

Young oaks are pruned to promote growth and will respond well to proper pruning, usually sprouting copious new growth. They should be pruned in mid to late winter: December and January are the months recommended by The National Forest Company. During the colder weather, bugs are far less prevalent if not non-existent. The reason this is significant is that bugs can be responsible for the spread of disease.

When you prune a tree, you create a wound. This secretes sap, and bugs adore sap! Sap attracts bugs which come to feed on it, often bringing with them fungal spores and bacteria. This is a major risk, particularly with Oak Decline becoming a widespread problem in recent years across southern areas of England.

The best way to avoid fungal spores spreading is to ensure trees are pruned at a time when the majority of bugs are either hiding away or have been killed by the frost, i.e. the winter months.

As an aside, if any evidence of Oak Decline is detected, then it is crucial to avoid pruning altogether, unless there is a particular risk of falling branches.

Young oak trees should be pruned in mid to late winter

Mature oak trees are usually pruned in order to correct an issue, such as blocked light and airflow, or to prevent the risk of falling dead branches. Whilst there is no hard and fast set of rules concerning the pruning of mature trees – which technically can be trimmed back with the aim of removing dead, diseased or weak limbs at any time of the year – as a rule, wound closure and growth become more enhanced if the pruning is undertaken before the growing season commences in spring.

In addition to this, because oak Decline is as much an issue for the mature tree as it is for the young, ensuring pruning is undertaken during the dormant season (late October to early March) and further still in freezing or near freezing conditions is wise. This is because transmission of disease is virtually impossible outside of warm periods.

Never prune a mature oak tree outside of its dormant period.

Other Considerations

No form of tree work should be carried out without first checking whether there is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place. If there is one, then permission will be required, and this can take up to eight weeks to come through. Similarly, if the tree is located in a conservation area, then again permission will be required for any works.

Oak tree pruning can be hazardous. Growing to towering stature, these trees really do call for expertise in working at height and the thick, heavy branches typical of mature oak trees require specialist cutting equipment.

Using a qualified tree surgeon is the best advice you can take. They will advise on the best timing for your oak tree pruning and will also be able to detect any signs of disease or decay and then let you know what action needs to be taken.

The importance of oak tree pruning expertise

In general, regardless of the type of tree you are looking to trim back, pruning really should not be carried out unless there is a good understanding of tree biology. Incorrect pruning can lead to lasting damage and can even reduce the lifespan of a tree. Expert pruning on the other hand can result in the maintenance of good tree health and structure and a much improved aesthetic appeal.

If you have an oak tree on your land that needs pruning, why not talk to Tree Works? As fully qualified and highly experienced tree surgeons, we are able to offer extensive knowhow when it comes to oak tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, give us a call on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

Cherry Tree Pruning: When’s the Right Time?

Expert insight into the best time to prune the different types of cherry tree; why cherry tree pruning is important, and how to identify common cherry tree diseases.

Cherry belongs to the Prunus group of trees and there are various fruit bearing species across Europe including Prunus cerasifera (cherry plum), Prunus cerasus (sour cherry, also known as ‘Morello’ or ‘acid’ cherry), Prunus avium (sweet cherry), Prunus subhirtella (weeping cherry) and Prunus padus (bird cherry). All species tend to grow wide and tall, sometimes up to 10 metres in height, and benefit greatly from regular pruning.

Why prune a cherry tree?

The key reason for pruning a cherry tree is to encourage a strong branch structure. A large crop of fruit will weigh heavy, which makes it important to strengthen the branches in order to support a good harvest.

Cherry tree pruning also allows more air and light to get to the fruit, which enhances its health and makes harvesting more straightforward as well as thwarting disease. You will also want to regularly remove dead or damaged branches for safety reasons, and these will usually be plentiful due to the pressure from the fruit crops. Diseased branches will also need to be removed and safely destroyed in order to ensure the health of the tree is maintained.

The aim of cherry tree pruning is to promote an open and well balanced branch structure that is easy to manage and provides for plenty of airflow and sunlight penetration, and that looks good to the eye. Proper pruning at an early age will result in a good form that allows for excellent fruit yields and general good health overall. Cherry trees that have not been pruned correctly will usually suffer limb damage when fruit crops are heavy.

In situations where a poorly maintained, mature cherry tree has been inherited, there will often be a risk of self-destruction due to large crops of fruit bearing too much of a load for under-cared-for trees and weak branches. In such cases, cherry tree renovation is what is needed to set off a new regime with the aim of reinstating strength and longevity.

When is the best time to prune a cherry tree?

The best advice generally as to when to prune a cherry tree is to do so during its dormant period, i.e. the winter months. Sweet cherry trees however are an exception to this rule as they are more susceptible to bacterial and fungal diseases such as silver leaf disease. The wounds created following pruning can make the tree more prone to picking up the disease because they allow the fungus to penetrate the wood, which results in a silvering of the leaves leading to the death of the branch. Therefore you must keep your pruning of sweet cherry trees confined to the early to mid-summer months. This is also the case with the weeping cherry, which again is prone to silver leaf disease.

Bear in mind though that summer pruning results in a reduction of the tree’s energy for fruit production, so keep the pruning to a minimum. You are best to stick to simple thinning, i.e. the removal of a limb or branch up to the point of where it grew from. This will also help to open up the tree’s canopy, so letting in more light and improving airflow.

Summer pruning results in a reduction of the tree’s energy for fruit production, so keep the pruning to a minimum.

Pruning a cherry tree other than sweet cherry or weeping cherry during its dormant period will not affect the energy reserves. Providing you take care to do your pruning as late in winter as possible, you will avoid damaging the tree.

Young cherry trees, i.e. those under three years of age, benefit from early spring pruning. Training and shaping the tree before it comes into blossom is ideal, starting as the buds start to come out but waiting until there is no chance of frost or extreme cold because younger trees can suffer from cold injury. Mature cherry trees can be pruned after they bear fruit, or in early spring.

What to look for when pruning a cherry tree

The cherry tree is prone to a number of diseases and pests including silver leaf disease, bacterial canker and cherry blackfly. Birds and aphids also pose a threat to certain types of cherry tree, in particular the sour cherry. Look out for silvering of the leaves and branch dieback (silver leaf disease); small holes in leaves and sunken, dead patches of bark (bacterial canker) and curled and distorted leaves at the tips and the presence of black aphids (cherry blackfly). Also look out for gumming (an amber coloured gum oozing from stems and branches which could be down to disease or an overly heavy fruit crop); and split fruits which are a result of certain weather conditions,

Tree Preservation Orders

Never proceed with any tree work without first checking whether there is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place. If there is, then permission must be obtained for the works and this can take up to eight weeks to come through. Furthermore, if the tree is located in a conservation area, permission will be needed for any works.

The importance of cherry tree pruning expertise

Without a good understanding of tree biology, it can be easy to damage a tree, sometimes fatally, when carrying out pruning. Cherry tree pruning can be quite a complex undertaking and much more involved and detailed than we have expressed in this general guide. There are numerous common problems that can come to light when pruning a cherry tree, and if you are not in a position to identify them and know what to do to rectify them, you could risk seriously damaging the tree.

Furthermore, there are many different types of cherry tree which call for very different methods and timings of pruning; so before you embark on your pruning regime, you must be quite clear on which you are dealing with.

If your aim is to produce a beautiful cherry tree that you can be proud of; one that produces excellent crops of tasty, healthy fruits, then you really should seek expert assistance from a qualified tree surgeon when it comes to pruning it.

If you have a cherry tree on your land that needs pruning, why not contact Tree Works? As fully qualified and extensively experienced tree surgeons, we can offer specialist knowledge and skill in all aspects of cherry tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, give us a call on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

Apple Tree Pruning: A Guide to Perfect Timing

Expert insight into the best time to prune an apple tree; why you should prune an apple tree, and how to identify common diseases during apple tree pruning.

The apple tree is not native to the UK, yet it has become a very popular addition to the English garden. With more than 7,500 cultivated varieties worldwide, the apple tree really does provide fruit for every taste, whether it’s being eaten naturally, baked, cooked or used to make cider.

The apple tree, known by its botanical name of malus domestica and also referred to as ‘Discovery’, is a small to medium sized tree that produces beautiful flowers in the spring and fruit that can be either ornamental or edible in the autumn. Growing only to a maximum of 8 metres but often less, this tree enjoys full sun and regular pruning.

Why prune an apple tree?

There are two key reasons for pruning an apple tree. One is to give next year’s fruit harvest a boost, and the other is to enhance this year’s crop. An apple tree that has been neglected will stop producing fruit and is likely to become unmanageable and unattractive.

When you prune a tree, you allow more air and sunlight to reach the fruit. This results in better fruit sweetness and increased fruit size as well as improved colour and much more straightforward harvesting. It will also reduce the threat of pests and disease. The fact you are able to see more with less foliage to contend with will help you spot any issues early on helps with this, as does a light and airy environment, as opposed to a damp and dark one.

Removing new shoots from an apple tree will lead to a greater harvest in the year that follows. The tree will, as a result of the pruning, be encouraged to produce even more fruiting spurs.

Your aim when pruning an apple tree is to take out the old to stimulate the new, and to create an open centre to the tree for better air and light penetration. Basically you are thinning out the tree, focusing on areas where the growth has become more crowded.

Care with apple tree pruning

You’ll need to take care not to prune any more than 20 per cent of the canopy each year otherwise you’ll see upright branches called watershoots sprouting. These serve no purpose and will not produce fruit or flowers.

You should always avoid pruning off larger limbs due to the risk of decay. Anything that is over 10cm in diameter should generally be left alone. The method and timing of pruning does however vary depending on the rootstock and type of growth form, i.e. whether it’s a bush tree or being trained in a restrictive form such as an espalier, cordon or pyramid, so be sure to consult the appropriate instructions for your particular type and form of apple tree.

When is the best time to prune an apple tree?

Untrained apple trees should be pruned every year, between November and March before the first leaves start to appear.

Trained apple trees on the other hand tend to benefit from summer pruning. Never attempt to prune a weak looking apple tree though, because when you take away the foliage, you remove the tree’s food source. Leave well alone until the tree gains strength.

For healthy trained apple trees, pruning is best carried out in July and August, although very advanced trees can be pruned earlier in the summer.

What to look for when pruning an apple tree

Apple trees are susceptible to various diseases and pests. Look out for shrivelled fruit clinging onto the shoots (brown rot) and ensure these are pruned out. Also look out for dark, flaky, shrunken patches on branches (apple canker); again cut out the affected parts but do not remove major limbs. Brown, shrivelled blossoms and die back of flowered shoot tips are signs of blossom wilt. If you see lots of dead branches then the tree may be suffering from honey fungus and is likely to need professional attention from a qualified tree surgeon.

Tree Preservation Orders

Never go ahead with any tree work without first checking whether there is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place. If this is the case then permission must be sought for the works which can take up to eight weeks to be provided. Additionally, if the tree is located in a conservation area, permission must be obtained before commencing works of any nature.

The importance of apple tree pruning expertise

Apple tree pruning is quite a complex undertaking. Pruning needs to be tailored for optimum fruit harvest and not all trees are suitable for certain training forms. Unless you are aware of the cropping habit of the tree, you should not proceed any further.

It is, unfortunately, fairly easy to thwart an apple tree’s growth and fruit producing capabilities through inappropriate pruning. In this guide we have merely scratched the surface when it comes to apple tree pruning.

Apple trees can live as long as 50 years, but only if they are well cared for. They also make beautiful addition to any garden or open space, and will produce delicious fruit providing they remain healthy. If this is what you really want to achieve, it is advisable to seek professional assistance from a qualified tree surgeon when it comes to the annual pruning of the tree.

If you have an apple tree on your land that needs pruning, why not contact Tree Works? As fully qualified and extensively experienced tree surgeons, we are able to offer specialist knowledge and skill in all aspects of apple tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, give us a call on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

When Should I Prune my Willow Tree?

Late winter to early spring

Expert insight into the best time for willow tree pruning; why you should prune a willow tree, and how to identify common diseases.

There are around 400 species of willow tree, known in Latin as Salix meaning ‘sallow’. When mature, willow trees grow to around 10 metres tall and have long lifespans up to 300 years. Most willows enjoy a wet, boggy environment so will usually be found growing close to rivers, streams and lakes.

Mostly when anyone mentions a willow tree, you will automatically think of the ‘weeping willow’, or Salix babylonica. The long, trailing branches that are characteristic to this particular tree sweep gracefully in the breeze, providing much welcome shade for park-goers and wildlife alike.

Whilst there are many UK native willow tree species prevalent throughout the country, including the bay willow, the crack willow, the goat willow, the osier willow, the grey willow and the white willow, we are specifically going to study in this post the pruning of the weeping willow, as it is one of the most popularly adopted in parks and gardens. Look out for future posts covering the other willow tree species or you can ask us to write a guide for your particular tree.

Why prune a weeping willow tree?

The weeping willow is a fast growing tree that benefits from good pruning and shaping in its formative years. Correct pruning of willow trees whilst they are still young and therefore easier to prune will usually make things much easier as time goes on. Develop a good structure now, and it should remain strong and healthy into old age.

When you prune a willow tree sapling, your aim is to develop a strong central leader. This will later become the tree’s trunk. You are also looking to remove any branches growing too closely together to allow more air and light to penetrate, which is essential to maintain the health of the tree as well as for aesthetic shaping. You’ll also want to test branches for strength and remove any that appear weak as these will usually break as the tree matures.

The aim of pruning a mature willow tree is really just to eliminate broken branches and those that are rubbing against each other and causing weakness. You’ll want to remove lower branches so that there is enough space to enjoy the shade under the tree during the warmer months spent outside in the company of your willow. It is also important to shorten the trailing branches if the tree is overhanging a public footway or land that needs to be maintained.

Additionally, because the willow tree grows rapidly, it can be prone to wind breakage. Spacing the branches will promote good air circulation which will reduce the risk of breakage. It is also important to remove suckers that come up from the ground should be cut off at ground level or below as they will drain energy from the tree.

When is the best time to carry out weeping willow tree pruning?

The weeping willow tree should only be pruned during late winter to early spring when the tree is in its dormant period. This is because willow trees, like most trees, bleed sap if they are pruned during their active growth period. When the sap is exposed it attracts bugs, which bring with them fungal spores and bacteria, which can lead to disease.

Of course if there are dead or broken branches posing a hazard, these can be carefully removed at any time.

Branch trimming to create space under the tree’s canopy can be done at any time of the year although it is usually most necessary in spring, summer and autumn. Suckers can be removed at any time and this should be done as soon as they appear.

Remember that you want to keep the lower part of the tree free from branches, so if you keep a close eye on your willow tree, you may be able to catch new growth early on and it will be as simple as rubbing it off with your fingers.

What to look for during willow tree pruning

Willow trees are prone to a number of diseases and pests. The gypsy moth caterpillar, the willow leaf beetle and the bagworm are all known pests, all of which will result in loss of leaves.

Crown gall is a particularly serious disease affecting willow trees which causes dieback and stunting. Also look out for green spores on the underside of leaves which denotes willow scab, and dark brown spots on the leaves which is black canker. Red or yellow patches on the trunk could be sunscald, which the tree will heal itself from in time, although it can be prevented in the first place by painting with diluted white paint.

If you spot peeling bark, this will usually be a sign of borer insects which have been tunnelling through the inner layer of the bark. Clipping out all affected branches is the best course of action in such cases.

Tree Preservation Orders

Never proceed with any tree work without first checking whether there is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place. If there is one, then permission must be obtained for the works which can take up to eight weeks to come through. Also, if the tree is located in a conservation area, permission must be obtained before commencing works of any nature.

The importance of Willow tree pruning expertise

Due to the expansive height and width of the willow tree, and its common location nearby bodies of water, it is usually a wise move to call in professional assistance when pruning a willow tree. They will have the knowhow and skill to prune the tree in just the right way so that it maintains a strong structure, looks attractive and stays healthy.

The fact that the willow tree is prone to numerous diseases and pests is another reason why a qualified arborist really should tend to the tree on a regular basis. Spotting signs of disease early on will give the tree the best possible chance of survival.

If you have a willow tree on your land that needs pruning, why not contact Tree Works? As fully qualified and comprehensively experienced tree surgeons, we are able to offer specialist knowledge and skill in all aspects of willow tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, give us a call on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

When is the Best Time to Prune a Dogwood Tree?

Expert insight into the best time to prune a dogwood tree; why dogwood tree pruning is important, and how to identify common dogwood tree diseases.

Dogwood is a small, deciduous broadleaf shrub that takes on a bushy appearance and is generally found in hedgerows and along woodland edges in the south of England. It’s also a popular ornamental tree in gardens, thanks to its appealing autumn colours.

Of the Latin name Cornus sanguinea, the dogwood tree is distinctive by its different colour twigs. In the sunlight, they are crimson, whilst in the shade, they are lime green coloured.

A mature dogwood tree will grow to 10 metres in height. It blossoms with small white clustered flowers in the summer, followed by black berries, sometimes referred to as ‘dogberries’, in the autumn.

Why prune a dogwood tree?

The dogwood tree will grow back vigorously when hard pruned, and will produce more colourful stems which are particularly appealing during winter to add a splash of much needed colour. In trees, this method is known as coppicing or pollarding, but for smaller shrubs it is called ‘stooling’. Producing coloured stems is a popular reason for pruning the dogwood tree.

In addition, as with any tree or shrub, pruning out deadwood or any diseased, decaying or congested branches or stems on a regular basis is good practice. It will enhance the health of the plant and promote light penetration and better air flow.

When is the best time for dogwood tree pruning?

The best time to prune a dogwood tree is from late winter to mid-spring, in other words between February and April. Pruning must be carried out before the new leaves begin to appear on the stems and for the dogwood, because you want to allow maximum time to enjoy the pretty coloured stems, it is advised to prune this tree just as new growth is developing but before the growth becomes fully active.

You want to ensure pruning takes place outside of the growing season when the majority of the plant’s resources reside within the roots and so can be used to boost regrowth. Prune during the growing season however, when the resources tend to be mostly within the leaves, and power will be lost through removing those leaves. It will lead to weaker regrowth.

If you are specifically looking to prune your dogwood tree to encourage colourful stems, you’ll need to wait until it’s at least a year, if not two years, old. Hard pruning is not suitable for younger dogwood trees. Once you reach the second or third spring, you can cut back to 60-90cm from the ground if you are pollarding. During the years that follow, introduce a bi-annual pruning regime which should be sufficient to maintain the tree’s shape, attractive appearance and overall health.

As for any diseased or damaged stems or branches, these should be removed as soon as they are spotted so that the tree remains safe and healthy.

What to look for when pruning a dogwood tree

Luckily for the dogwood tree, it is not susceptible to many diseases or pests, although the horse chestnut scale insect can be an issue. This sap-sucking insect causes mainly cosmetic damage and thankfully causes minimal harm to the plant. Cornus anthracnose on the other hand is a fungal disease that can kill leaves and young shoots of some dogwood species. You’ll see dead blotches on leaves, and dieback of young stems.

Tree Preservation Orders

Be sure to never go ahead with any tree work until you are positive that there is no Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place. If there is, you must be in possession of official permission before you proceed. This can take up to eight weeks to be provided. Also be aware that if the tree is located in a conservation area, permission must be gained before proceeding with works of any kind.

The importance of dogwood tree pruning expertise

If you have a dogwood tree on your land or in your garden that you are keen to maintain in a health and attractive state you are well advised to bring in the expertise of a qualified tree surgeon. Make sure you choose one that can provide checkable references and who is able to present you with official certificates proving their qualifications as well as insurance documents so you know you are covered for their work. Also, wherever possible, try and use a tree surgeon that is Trading Standards and local authority approved for even further peace of mind.

If you have a dogwood tree that could do with pruning or trimming, why not talk to Tree Works? As fully qualified and long term experienced Trading Standards and local authority approved tree surgeons, we can provide specialist expertise across all elements of dogwood tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, contact our helpful experts on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

When Should I Prune my Common Box Tree?

Expert insight into the best time to prune a common box tree; why common box tree pruning is important, and how to identify common box tree diseases.

Common box is a large, evergreen shrub that is native to the UK. It is found mainly in the south of the country around Box Hill in Surrey and across the North Downs, the Chilterns and the Cotswolds. It’s a slow growing tree, known by the Latin name of Buxus sempervirens, and is commonly used as hedging and for topiary.

This tree will grow to heights of 5 metres although left unpruned it will sometimes reach 12 metres in height. With its glossy, leathery leaves and small, yellow-green flowers, it is quite distinctive and will live for several hundred years.

Why prune a common box?

As the common box is generally employed as a hedging shrub, pruning is primarily carried out to maintain the shape and aesthetic appeal of the tree. Because it is slow-growing, the common box won’t tend to need anything other than periodical tidying up, although it is good practice to remove any unhealthy shoots as they appear in mid-spring.

The common box, like any tree or shrub, will also benefit from regular removal of dead wood or diseased or decaying branches. This shrub is prone to a large number of pests and diseases, so it is doubly important to be vigilant and take action to prune out any problems as they are detected.

When is the best time for common box tree pruning?

It is generally advised to prune evergreen shrubs just before their growth cycle commences in mid-spring so that any risk of frost is well out of the way and cannot harm new shoots. This timing will also mean that pruning scars are concealed by new growth, which enhances the appearance of the plant.

If the box tree is still flowering or about to flower by mid-spring, pruning can be delayed until immediately after the flowering has finished.

If your box tree is used to form a hedge or topiary and you are looking to encourage bushy growth, a young plant can be cut back by up to a third in May. The common box can withstand hard pruning and will grow back from bare wood. This means that an unruly hedge can be cut right back to the central stem or trunk quite safely. Whilst it will not look very appealing at first, it will encourage the sprouting of fresh shoots. Give them a year or so and they will be ready for trimming. Do this in May for best results.

The best time to trim back mature hedges and topiary is August. Whist in theory you can prune towards the end of May, doing so may result in leaving the new growth prone to weather damage including leaf scorch and diseases such as box blight. Leaving the pruning until August when the new growth has hardened should assist in minimising leaf damage and it will keep the hedge nice and neat during the winter.

Any diseased or damaged branches should be removed as soon as they are detected for the sake of the plant’s health.

What to look for during common box tree pruning

Box blight as already mentioned is a fungal disease that causes bare patches in box trees together with dieback. This is particularly prevalent in topiary. Look out for brown leaves and bare patches, especially following wet weather.

Additionally, box sucker is a known issue. Whilst it is not considered a serious risk to the plant’s health, it will affect the appearance. Look out for cupped leaves at the shoot tip and, in late spring, flattened pale green insects plus a white waxy substance.

The box red spider mite and mussel scale can also be frequently occurring problems for the common box. Lighter infestations of mussel scale are not too problematic, however heavy attacks will affect the plant’s growth. Look out for brownish black scales encrusted across the bark which take on the appearance of mussels. In more serious cases, stems may suffer from dieback.

Tree Preservation Orders

Never proceed with any tree work until you are absolutely sure that there is no Tree Preservation Order (TPO) applicable. If there is, you must obtain permission before going ahead, and this can take up to eight weeks to come through. What’s more, if the tree is sited in a conservation area, permission must be gained before going ahead with works of any kind.

The importance of common box tree pruning expertise

A neat and tidy hedge and well-crafted topiary say a thousand words. Checking for signs of the numerous diseases typical of the common box, and knowing how to deal with them swiftly and effectively, is essential if you are going to maintain the beauty of your plant and its surroundings. Sometimes, the best way to do this is by engaging professional assistance, particularly if your common box has grown to quite a height and needs a safety conscious approach.

If you have a common box tree on your land or in your garden that you’d like to keep healthy and looking beautiful, then you should call in specialist assistance from a tree surgeon. Always be sure to check that your chosen tree surgeon is able to provide official certificates and checkable references and, whenever possible, use a Trading Standards approved tree surgeon for a guarantee of quality and value for money.

If you have a common box tree that needs pruning, why not get in touch with Tree Works? As fully qualified and vastly experienced Trading Standards and local authority approved tree surgeons, we are able to offer specialist expertise across all aspects of common box tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, contact our helpful experts on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

When Should I Prune my Blackthorn Tree?

Expert insight into the best time to prune a blackthorn tree; why blackthorn tree pruning is important, and how to identify common blackthorn tree diseases.

Blackthorn is a small, thorny deciduous tree native to the UK. Of the Latin Prunus spinosa, this tree is also known as ‘sloe’ and it will, with regular pruning, grow to heights of up to 7 metres and live up to 100 years.

Blackthorn bark is smooth and dark brown and the twigs develop into thorns. The wood is exceptionally tough and traditionally used to make walking or riding sticks as well as Irish shillelaghs. The fruit of the blackthorn, the sloe, is a well-known ingredient for flavouring gin and is also commonly used to make wine and preserves.

Why prune a blackthorn tree?

Blackthorn trees will not generally require too much pruning once mature, unless they are being used as a hedge, in which case they will benefit from a regular tidy-up to keep them in good shape.

Young blackthorn trees require regular pruning and training to promote thickness and a strong framework.

As with any tree, periodically removing branches that are congested is good practice as this will encourage improved light penetration and air circulation, both of which will promote the tree’s good health. Any decaying or diseased branches should also be trimmed out as soon as they are detected so that any underlying issues are prevented from spreading.

When is the best time for blackthorn tree pruning?

Formative blackthorn tree pruning and hedge trimming should ideally be carried out during the winter, when the tree is not in its active growth stage. During this time, the tree won’t bleed sap when cut, which means it won’t attract bacteria and disease carrying bugs.

If silver leaf is posing a problem, pruning should be undertaken in mid-summer. Silver leaf is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and wood of various trees, particularly those bearing fruits such as plums, apricots and cherries. The fungus gets into the wood through wounds, which is why careful pruning is essential. Once it has penetrated the tree, the fungus causes silvering of the leaves and then death of the branch. Because infectious spores are active between September and May, it is important to avoid pruning during this time, hence the instruction to prune in mid-summer.

Any branches that appear dangerous and posing a risk of falling from the tree should be removed without delay, but do engage a qualified tree surgeon as they will know exactly how to safely remove them. They will also have the knowledge to investigate the overall health of the tree, and to deal with any issues they find.

What to look for when pruning a blackthorn tree

As well as silver leaf disease, the blackthorn tree is susceptible to blossom wilt. This causes brown and shrivelled blossom and leaves and can ill smaller branches. The issue is caused by a fungus and occurs during the spring.

The blackthorn tree can also suffer damage from aphids and caterpillars as well as bullfinches, and the fruits can, from time to time, become distorted by a gall-forming fungus known as Taphrina pruni, or pocket plum. In the summer, look out for fruits without stones followed by a white bloom of fungus before the fruit shrivels and falls from the tree. Twigs bearing deformed fruit may themselves become deformed.

Tree Preservation Orders

You should never go ahead with any tree work until you can be certain that there is no Tree Preservation Order (TPO) applicable. If so, you must seek permission before proceeding, and this can take up to eight weeks to come through. What’s more, if the tree is situated in a conservation area, permission must be sought before commencing works of any kind.

Also be aware that if birds are found to be nesting in your blackthorn tree, which is a very common habitat thanks to its dense, thorny protection, you will not be able to proceed until they have left of their own accord.

The importance of blackthorn tree pruning expertise

The blackthorn tree needs regular attention in order to maintain its shape as a hedgerow plant, and during its formative years. Later on you will need to look out for signs of disease and be sure to remove any affected branches in a timely fashion.

Pruning a blackthorn tree is no easy task. Aptly named due to its spiky nature, the thorns of this tree are particularly hazardous and it has been known for people to sustain quite serious injuries and infections having been scratched or pierced.

If you have a blackthorn tree on your land or in your garden that you’d like to nurture, and if you are keen to harvest its abundant fruits and enjoy its glorious presentation of white flowers that appear before the fruits, then you should always call in expert assistance. Ensure your chosen tree surgeon is able to provide official certificates and checkable references and, where possible, use a Trading Standards approved tree surgeon for a guarantee of quality and value.

If you have a blackthorn tree that needs pruning, why not contact Tree Works? As fully qualified and highly experienced Trading Standards and local authority approved tree surgeons, we are able to offer specialist expertise across all aspects of blackthorn tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, contact our friendly experts on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

When is the Best Time to Prune an Alder Tree?

Expert insight into the best time to prune an alder tree; why alder tree pruning is important, and how to identify common alder tree diseases.

The alder tree is a deciduous, conical shaped tree that is native to the UK. Of the Latin Alnus glutinosa and also known as the common alder, black alder and European alder, this tree can reach of heights of around 20 metres and will live up to 60 years.

The alder is known for its important symbiotic relationship with Franka alni, a bacterium found in the tree’s root nodules that absorbs nitrogen from the air and makes it available to the tree. In return, the tree feeds the bacterium with sugars via photosynthesis. As a result, the fertility of the soil where the tree grows gets a boost, and the species that follow get to enjoy additional nitrogen.

Why prune an alder tree?

Because the alder tree can reach quite a height, it only requires minimal pruning once mature to keep it looking its best and of course, in good health.

Young alder trees benefit from formative pruning to retain a good shape. Smaller branches growing off the central leading trunk that fall below the larger branches can be trimmed off. Young shoots sprouting from the trunk, and root suckers, should also be removed as part of this process.

It is also a good idea to thin out any branches that rub against each other or are causing congestion, as this will encourage better air circulation and light penetration, both essential to maintain the good health of the tree.

As with any tree, it is important to remove any dead or diseased branches as soon as they are detected. This will prevent any issues from spreading to the rest of the tree. Be sure not to tear the bark or the wood though, as this can lead to an influx of bugs or even ingress of disease.

When is the best time for alder tree pruning?

Formative alder tree pruning should ideally be carried out during the winter, when the tree is not actively growing. This prevents sap bleeding, which tends to attract bugs, which can bring with them bacteria leading to disease. Suckers can be removed between late autumn and winter.

Any hazardous branches detected should be dealt with immediately, although it is wise to call in a qualified tree surgeon who will know precisely how to deal with their safe removal. They will also be able to investigate whether the remaining part of the tree is healthy.

What to look for when pruning an alder tree

The alder tree is susceptible to aphids and leaf-mining sawflies. Any infestation should be dealt with by careful pruning.

Phytophthora root rot, also referred to as alder dieback, is a known issue in the UK. It is a type of fungus that leads to abnormally small, yellow leaves that fall prematurely in the summer. Look out for dead twigs and dead branches within the crown as well as bleeding from the bark that forms brown, rust spots. You may also see abnormally large quantities of cones, which is a sign of stress. The tree may demise quickly, although sometimes it happens over time. Never hesitate in seeking professional assistance from a qualified and experienced tree surgeon should you spot any of these symptoms present in your alder tree.

Tree Preservation Orders

You should always refrain from proceeding with any tree work until you are absolutely sure that there is no Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place. If there is, you will need to obtain permission before proceeding, and this can take up to eight weeks to be provided. Furthermore, if the tree is located in a conservation area, permission must be gained before commencing works of any kind.

The importance of alder tree pruning expertise

The alder tree is environmentally important, and it is an attractive tree too. If you want to ensure it is kept healthy and looking its best, the utmost care must be taken over it.

You should never hold back in bringing in the expertise of a qualified tree surgeon if you have any doubts about the best way of caring for your alder tree. Their experience and skill will make all the difference. Just make sure you are diligent in choosing your tree surgeon. They should be able to present official certificates and checkable references. If you can, use a Trading Standards approved tree surgeon for a guarantee of quality and good value.

If you have an alder tree that requires pruning, why not contact Tree Works? As fully qualified and extensively experienced Trading Standards and local authority approved tree surgeons, we can deliver specialist expertise across all aspects of alder tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, get in touch with our friendly experts on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

When Should I Prune my Aspen Tree?

Expert insight into the best time to prune an aspen tree; why aspen tree pruning is important, and how to identify common aspen tree diseases.

The aspen tree is a fast-growing UK native deciduous tree which is very common across Europe, Africa and Asia. It is an incredibly striking and attractive tree, thanks to its leaves that shimmer and appear to constantly tremble in the breeze. Its Latin name, Populus tremula, literally translated means ‘trembling poplar’ and the tree is also known as the ‘quaking aspen’. The leaves transform from bronze in the spring through to a rich golden yellow in the autumn, and the tree is very important for wildlife, providing a habitat for numerous insects including the endangered Aspen Hoverfly.

As a specimen tree, the Aspen is a popular sight in woodland, gardens and parks and can grow up to 25 metres in height. Its trunk may take on a dark coloured appearance in maturity which is due to it becoming covered in lichen, and its higher branches often bend over horizontally.

Why prune an aspen tree?

Most specimen trees, including the aspen, do not need regular pruning, but they do benefit from shaping in order to maintain the best possible appearance.

The aspen tree, like many others, will also benefit from the removal of damaged, diseased, congested or crossing shoots which can affect the overall health of the tree and again, its appearance.

Suckers are also an issue for the aspen tree. These regularly appear from the root system and present something of a nuisance as they have a habit of growing into a separate plant, which then competes with the main tree for light, water and nutrients. Suckers need to be removed in such a way that the chance of their regrowth is reduced. If suckers are left to grow out of control, it may lead to the entire tree having to be cut down.

When is the best time for aspen tree pruning?

If you need to carry out shaping of your aspen tree, the best time to do this is during the winter outside of its active growth cycle. This will prevent sap bleeding, which can lead to disease.

If you need to carry out sucker removal, do this during late autumn or winter.

If you discover dangerous or precarious branches at any time during the year, you should go ahead and carefully remove them without delay.

In all cases, consulting with a qualified tree surgeon is the best move. They will be able to provide you with tailored pruning advice based on your individual tree, its condition and its environment.

What to look for when pruning an aspen tree

The aspen tree is susceptible to various fungal diseases. Look out for sunken, dead patches of bark and small holes in the leaves (bacterial canker); yellow, orange, brown, black or white coloured pustules on leaves and sometimes other aerial parts (leaf rust); dark spots or blotches on leaves, premature leaf fall, aborted flowers and shrivelled or scabby fruit (poplar scab); decaying roots, white fungus between wood and bark, rhizomorphs and sudden death (honey fungus); and silvery leaves and branch dieback (silver leaf disease). If you spot any of these issues, consult a qualified tree surgeon immediately.

Tree Preservation Orders

You should never go ahead with any tree work until you are certain that there is no Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place. If there is, you will require permission before proceeding which can take up to eight weeks to come through. Furthermore, if the tree is located in a conservation area, permission must be gained before commencing works of any kind.

The importance of aspen tree pruning expertise

The aspen is a beautiful tree. If you want to preserve its attractiveness and secure its long term health, you will need to ensure great care is taken over it.

Tree surgeons are experienced in detecting diseases and pest infestations in all species of trees. They know how to treat these problems and also have in-depth knowledge of the best pruning methods, and the best time to use them. If you are in any doubt as to how to best care for your aspen tree, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Always be sure to carefully check the qualifications and references of your chosen tree surgeon.

If you have an aspen tree that needs pruning, why not contact Tree Works? As fully qualified and highly experienced Trading Standards and local authority approved tree surgeons, we can deliver specialist expertise across all areas of aspen tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, contact our helpful experts on 07781 416 354 or get in touch here.

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