What Is a Tree Protection Order and Do I Need One?

Posted on August 14, 2019August 8, 2019 by admin

The irony in these questions lies where people need more protection instead of trees need protecting. Trees protect human lives for centuries, and people depend on them in many ways.

With the abuse of man in utilising his natural resources, trees are not exempted from such cruelty, thus, they, too, need protection. As we know, trees are fundamental to our existence, for without them, as part of the living things in the flora world, we would cease to survive.

As we get to enjoy trees in any way, a regulation must be set to provide limits and protection against people. The TPO, which stands for Tree Preservation Orders, is established to protect and preserve trees in our environment, for people in two ways; aesthetically and environmentally. The TPO covers woodlands and orchards that are non-commercial. It excludes hedges, bushes, and shrubs.

Tree Preservation Order: What do you know?

The TPO is a governing body formed by the council or National Park to prohibit cutting trees or any tree-related works without due permission. Assuming you own a certain tree in your backyard. But if it is under TPO, it means you’re not allowed just to cut it down on your own decision. Even if the tree is planted long ago in your premise, the TPO protection serves it ruling on the said tree. It could be because removing the tree will compromise its value in the public or that your property is within the confines of a conservation area. The TPO is a legal body and violating its rules will mean criminal offense on your part.

If you feel the tree is becoming a detriment to life and property, you can consult the body on what to do with the tree. The good thing about residing in an area outside the TPO boundaries and jurisdiction since you are no longer required to secure permission to cut it down or have it felled by tree experts if you wish to.

Tree surgeons in Alpine Tree can help you figure out the best step about your problematic tree. Our tree surgeons have extensive knowledge and experience to handle the tree felling. There’s no better way to do it if you are in a difficult situation and only those experts in this field could understand what is happening.

Do you need a TPO?

The need to have or ‘to be aware’ of the ruling of TPO is essential for your home and surroundings affecting trees either protected or not protected by TPO. Why? Because in certain ways, you need to consult the local authority about any action that might devalue the regulation, even if the tree is not yours or not in your own property. As a citizen, you have a civil duty in your community to help preserve trees and protect them from any illegal removal by any party.

Citizens have varied concerns and issues when it comes to removing trees. For example, one can question if he has the right to work on a tree which is covered in the proposed development or infrastructure. The TPO only allows the works on any trees even if it is a protected tree if the request meets certain conditions, and if permission is granted.

For example, you plan on building a home extension, and doing so will affect the tree which is protected by a TPO. You need to apply for permission from the local authority in a normal way. Or if you suspect a diseased tree or dead tree but it’s under

Tree preservation procedures is an extensive guideline on protected trees released by the Department for Communities and Local Government. From there, you can gain insights and essential information covering wide issues on tree cutting and tree preservation.

Your obligations

As a landowner, it is your responsibility for the upkeep of your surroundings and in the care of the tree within your premises. This is to invoke safety and health and protect those that might be affected by the risks involved in the tree. Finding a tree protected by a TPO but needs to be felled due to some issues on its health, which may infect other healthy trees is an advisable move that is essential to the community.

Ultimately, if there are concerns that you have no idea if TPO guidelines cover them, the assessment by a certified tree surgeon is vital to an application for permission in order to gain a decision regarding the tree.

Alpine Tree Surgeons do this at their best. If you need more information and assistance on TPO and the inclusive ruling, you may call our office and one of our staff will be glad to help. Call us or visit our website.

The Top 3 Questions a Tree Surgeon Gets Asked

Posted on August 6, 2019August 7, 2019 by admin

There are many questions you can ask from a tree surgeon. As their days are filled with various tasks, it is normal to be curious about what they actually do and how they feel about it. For us, tree felling seems to be a daunting task, and the activities and risks involved are too much for us to understand.

A tree surgeon’s job perhaps is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. Their typical day involves going to heights of trees more than 50 feet in height! However, there’s more to that than just climbing the trees, and we want to know what. Despite the detriments involved, tree surgery is still one of the most exciting jobs to do if you are enthusiastic about the outdoors. Are you in for adventures? Then you need to fill in yourself in the shoes of an actual tree surgeon.

So, to have a little knowledge of what tree surgeons actually do, we need to know what bugs them in their daily lives as the ones responsible in keeping our community tidy and orderly when it comes to the upkeep of plants and trees around.

As we surveyed around in Guildford, these are the top three questions most tree surgeons get asked:

How long can you finish a job? If you are a client and you are canvassing your area for reliable tree surgeons, this is probably one of the questions you will immediately ask. Why? Because most customers want to get things done as they expect it to be done. Some are too hasty to have these tree surgeons to finish the assigned task, just because they are paying. The expected reply if we were the tree surgeon being asked would be “it depends.” But typically for a tree surgeon, the job takes one day to finish if it is not that complicated.
Are you insured? Why is this being asked? Because customers do not want to be liable when things go wrong in the worksite. Insurance among workers is crucial when they assume the task, especially that climbing trees is a life-threatening job.
Can you tell me what you actually do? The curiosity of people on what tree surgeons do is simply becoming. First, because tree surgery is not the typical day-to-day office job. While electricians, plumbers, and builders are on-site jobs that are both risky and complex, tree surgery is somehow unique in its sense, so, everyone is interested to know what they actually do.

Customers know they are in safe hands when a project is ongoing within their compound. You know how dangerous it is when huge tree branches of trees fall, hitting properties and lives. Or when a branch snaps while the surgeon is still hanging up there, where anytime soon anybody could get hurt even the tree surgeon himself. Safety is perfected by expert tree surgeons when they embark on this dangerous job. The security they warrant their clients is part of their commitment to the industry. Without it, they are not qualified to be called tree surgeons.

Certified tree surgeons carry out their tasks to the highest standards. When we say standards, we mean the quality of work based on British standards and affiliation in accredited organisations in the UK. Such credentials must reflect on the job and not on written portfolios alone.

Tree surgery is not for the faint-hearted, but if you love to be one, ask our team. Discover the beauty in this exciting job. Perhaps, you can talk to one of our staff and get to know how they do it in detail.

But if you are on the other end of the rope, someone who’s interested to know what tree surgeons do because you want to avail their services, then you are not getting far away. We have a line of tree surgeons with extensive experience and high work ethics you can depend on. Alpine Tree Surgeons employ people who are reliable in the industry and who do not leave any mess behind. We opt for zero backlogs, and we ensure that we carry out what you expect of us.

If you have further queries that are under our scope, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are just a call and click away.

Can You Trim a Neighbour’s Tree?

Posted on July 30, 2019August 7, 2019 by admin

Conflicts involving a tree

Trimming or cutting a tree is not anybody’s business. Frequently, trimming trees raise conflicts among tree owners and misunderstandings in the existing codes and laws. But how do we know the extent of an individual’s right when it comes to problematic trees?

The benefits we get from trees are almost countless; a perfect shade, shelter for birds and small animal creatures, fruit-bearing plant, wood products, and many more. However, trees can also be an eyesore and a detriment to the surrounding; it is often a subject of debate and a cause of rift among neighbours.

Before you get furious over your neighbor’s untrimmed tree, know your limitations and rights. The branches of your neighbor’s trees could be encroaching on your property, and you feel annoyed. What shall you do? Can you trim those overhanging branches?

Know the limits of your property line; know your limits. Read on how such relative freedom prevents us from building walls instead of bridges just because a particular tree is planted between you and your neighbour.

There are many reasons why a tree can be a nuisance instead of being beneficial to the people around it, from which any person with legal rights may claim or raise an issue to the owner of the conflicting tree. However, there are grey areas to consider. The following points can be a cause of concern, but the others could be answered by a simple yes or no or pure common sense.

Let’s say there is a tree on someone else’s property, and such property is your neighbor who happens to share a wall with you, and you have a strong desire to trim down the tree due to some reasons, what’s the smartest thing to do?

Find a solution that will make everyone happy. Try to talk to your neighbour and settle the conflict; it’s best to start with the minor issue. Waiting for matters to blow out of proportion will create a massive fire over it. If you’re annoyed now just because you can’t see part of the road that’s highly important for your view or such that the tree’s branches clog your gutters, then go right now and talk.

For most situations, or in any battle, for example, never go to war unarmed. What does this mean? This principle applies to disputes where the offended party is urged to confront the offender without being equipped with wisdom. Know the facts before proceeding.

You can’t cut down a tree that is not in your property. Your tree surgeons will tell you in-depth why. But for the basics, not anyone can go into someone else’s property and cut that tree down. You could be liable for trespassing or any misdeed concerning the tree. Just know that any tree that is planted inside the neighbor’s property is not your business to have it removed, simply because they are the owner of the tree. You could be facing liabilities for the consequences in barging to someone else’s yard.
My neighbour’s tree branches hang over my lawn, can I trim it? Most local laws permit you to cut parts of the branches that go over your fence or property line. Even without asking your neighbour when you think those branches are annoying and cause inconvenience in your life as a homeowner, then you have the right to trim it down, as long as you don’t violate any rules. If the tree, however, is a diseased tree, and having to cut the branches may harm it even more or may infect other plants in your yard, it is best to consult existing regulations in your locality or state.

Most issues in cutting or trimming down trees pose a lot of debate among tree owners and neighbours. To settle the score, let your government meddle with the matter. Sometimes there are trees built at the center or occupying both property lines of two homeowners. Call a tree surgeon to inspect the tree and if it is safe to remove if both of you find it more convenient to have it gone. At least, both parties have the consent for the tree removal. If neighbours fail to remove the problematic tree, they could be held liable since the tree would cause certain damage in the community.

Final thoughts

Whether your neighbour’s tree is inherently dangerous or not when it invades your property, you have the right to trim it down. Best if you consult the experts in this field. In Guildford and many areas in the UK, Alpine Tree Surgeons is a company of tree surgery that deals with similar occasions. For many years, it has upheld its high standard in caring for trees and in ensuring that the communities in the UK have removed noxious trees. If you need the help or our tree surgeons, reach out to us and let our tradesmen inspect your areas and settle your dispute. This is better than having to file a lawsuit just because your neighbour’s tree is simply annoying.

How do I choose a tree surgeon?

Posted on July 23, 2019August 7, 2019 by admin

Tree felling is a highly risky job where it needs the expertise of someone qualified to cut it down. Since it is a life-threatening job indeed, it places the lives of those involved in cutting trees down. Therefore, you need a tree surgeon.

A tree surgeon is a person who is professionally responsible and qualified to remove a tree. Knowing the dangers of removing unwanted trees in our surroundings, tree surgeons are highly skilled personnel. They approved by certain institutions and business who are confident that these people could wield the axe with efficiency for bringing down a tree. Tree surgeons have extensive training and skills before they are sent out to the field and take on the tree job.

A delicate and dangerous job, such as tree felling, pruning, moving, stump grinding, and any other tree and plant-related role, tree surgery should be handled by a certified tree surgeon.

There are key issues that have to be considered when selecting the perfect tree surgeon.

Tree surgeons should know how to wield power tools.
Tree climbing is their thing; they must be skilled in aerial operations.
They should be physically fit (tree surgeons are exposed to different hazards and weather conditions)
They must know how to conduct tree inspection and assessment, deciding on whether a certain tree serves as a threat to humans, other living things, and human conditions.
They observe safety at all times.
They must have skills in chopping, pruning, felling, maintaining, and planting trees.

What else should you look for?

Check if they are using the right tool or equipment.
Observe if the hired tree surgeon knows how to use a harness
Check if they are well suited for the job and are wearing safety gears
Listen if they use language in their industry; if they can’t even recognise tree surgery jargons, then start suspecting.
Look for membership in authorised academic institutions and accreditation
Able to provide a complete quote
Ask for an NPTC certification (City & Guilds Land Based Services)

What is NPTC?

The City & Guilds Land Based Services, formerly NPTC, is the largest in the UK as an award-giving body for those in the land-based sector covering aspects of work in the agriculture, conservation, animal care, machinery, horticulture, and arboriculture. If a tree surgeon can present an NPTC certification, that’s a plus to his credentials.

What does NPTC do?

This organising body offers vocational education in a related field. It has a strong focus on specialist skills, that is, tree surgery or arboriculture, to be able for a seeker to acquire a certificate of competence qualification. If you have this certification, you can secure a licence to practice in relation to the activities and works of a tree surgeon.

Employers and training providers, academic institutions can provide the training and education they seem needed for the skills of the involved individuals under their care. This, in essence, is an important undertaking in relevance with key industry bodies.

Another essential qualification of a tree surgeon is if he is connected or has worked to British Standards. There are British Standards about tree works, and tree surgeons who would like to gain reputation must be familiar with these standards (tree works and demolition).

Other memberships go beyond NPTC. Additionally, a qualified tree surgeon is recommended to be a member of the Arboricultural Association and Tree Care Industry Association.

What are these associations for?

A high standard of workmanship is a demand in the field of tree felling. Although membership in these associations is not compulsory, the connection itself adds value to the type of skill every tree surgeon must display. The sheer involvement to any highly regarded association makes one more knowledgeable, skilled, and trained, and always one step ahead against any competitor.

Also, having passed written and practical assessments prior to engagements to authorised parties makes one more equipped in terms of his work in tree surgery.

Tree surgeons in Alpine

Here in Alpine Tree Surgeons, we employ qualified personnel who undertake the risky job of a tree surgeon. They are licenced tree surgeons in the industry and certified fully to assume and handle challenging tasks when it comes to tree felling and related projects.

If you wish to know more and are keen on understanding the life and works of a tree surgeon, send your inquiries to our office. If you feel you couldn’t trust anyone to handle tree felling in your area, call our support group, and we will inspect it for you. Call us or fill out the form on this website, and we will attend to you straight away.

Do I Need Permission to Cut Down a Tree on My Property?

Posted on July 9, 2019October 4, 2019 by admin

Sometimes, it is so easy to tell if a tree in our backyard has to be removed, especially if it is becoming an inconvenience. While trees are an important part of our surroundings, keeping them as long as we want may or may not be a good decision. The time will come that trees need to be cut down and eradicated from our lawn. We need to let go of our beloved trees soon. But the issue lies if we have the right to take down a tree even if it is within our property.

Some points about tree felling and what constitutes our rights in getting rid of a tree in our backyard are good things to know. Do not attempt to cut it down with your axe too soon. There are always implications in cutting down a tree whether your purpose is for the benefit of your place or your community.

Conflicts in tree felling

Removing a tree gives you various reasons whether it is for personal benefit. Tree reservation is a benevolent move, but when you look at it from a different perspective, you can second guess if keeping it is the right thing to do.

What do you think are the reasons for cutting down a tree? Are these valid?

When root growths are becoming a hazard to home and nearby structures
A decaying tree
When large tree trunks hang over the neighbour’s yard, thereby invading their privacy
When a tree is damaging other houses in case of heavy storms and wind
When a tree is leaning tree towards your house and pose as a detriment to your life and property
A dead tree

A compromised tree is facing possible extinction unless it continues to bring benefits around us. A damaged tree brought by a calamity could still be salvaged by removing the fallen trunks and trimming it in a way it will not serve an obstacle on the road or path or as a cause of harm to other plants.

The effects of removing a tree

You may have good reasons for cutting down a tree. While trees offer significant benefits to wildlife and people, removing it could have a negative impact.

Do you know that trees are shelters for wildlife? Many species, such as birds and other reptiles, depend on trees for food, safety, and most importantly shelter. Have you thought where birds go during heavy rains? Though your roof could somehow be their temporary place of refuge, they depend entirely on trees, especially with lush greens. Additionally, the fruits of trees cater to the food of these living things, not just man. So if you have decided to cut down your tree, part of the wildlife that is depending on your garden will no longer have somewhere to go, resulting in loss of life.

The air we breathe

In connection to the life-giving property of trees, humans depend on trees for oxygen, provide a temporary refuge from the scorching heat of the sun, prevent flooding, which is a life-threatening calamity. What else?

With the presence of trees, carbon emission is lessened or controlled, provide health to the soil, and prevent soil erosion with its roots holding the water and storing it for continuous consumption within its own life.

Trees give us peace of mind. Its presence in our lawn makes life more serene, lighter, vibrant and inspires us to be productive in our own way. Thus, the aesthetics trees impart is only a part of its many uses.

Tree Preservation Order: what do we know?

Your tree could be under Tree Preservation Order (TPO), meaning you need permission before cutting it down even if it is within your premise, more importantly, if removing it compromises its value in the public and that your property is located inside a conservation area. The TPO is an authority or body formed by the council or National Park to prohibit cutting trees or any works thereof without permission. Violating the TPO is a criminal offence.

You do not need to get permission from the council or the body that has a ruling on the TPO if you live outside a conservation area and that removing the tree would not affect the public. You do not need to consult the council or seek permission from the authority if the tree is in your lawn and you want to cut it.

If you are in doubt, you can seek the help of our tree surgeons, and they are more than happy to share pertinent information on tree felling.

If you feel the need to remove your tree and all the conditions above are met, there’s no one who can prevent you. The ultimate decision you can make for your tree is to seek the advice of tree experts and arborists. Tree surgeons from Alpine Tree have extensive knowledge and skills to facilitate the removing of your tree in your lawn. It makes a big difference if you head to those who have many years of experience in tree felling, at least you will never go wrong.

Call our tree surgeons now for help, or receive a free quote on any of your queries.

https://www.alpinetreesurgeons.co.uk/tree-surgeons-guildford/

How Can I Make My Tree Healthy Again?

Posted on July 2, 2019July 24, 2019 by admin

Why do we need trees?

Trees are an indispensable part of our existence; they have been here since time immemorial. Basing on science, trees are known to prevent soil erosion and serve as shelter for some animal life. For us humans, the oxygen coming from trees and plants is crucial for our survival. In exchange, we send out carbon dioxide which trees need for their own survival, too.

In many aspects of life, trees play important roles. Other than bearing fruit and providing shelter, the presence of trees in our surroundings alone completes the life that we have.

Why trees are being removed

There are a variety of reasons why trees get removed. Sometimes, the purpose is out of self-interest. The selfishness that evolved from keeping trees away or keeping them alive result in destruction.

Trees are removed to give way to urbanisation.
Climate changes make some tree species extinct.
Trees are becoming hazards to someplace in the community.
Trees are being made as furniture.
Trees are removed and transferred for the community purpose.

Since the effects of removing trees had an impact on the lives of trees, the government and concerned societies encouraged the replanting of trees to replenish what we have lost. However, this move could have been somewhat too late for those who have abused the usefulness of trees. Such unscrupulous acts resulted to a variety of damage to our environment.

Trees are used for many purposes.
Tree with disease.
Trees gave way to building roads.

Trees that have been neglected are left to rot and infect other healthy trees. Fortunately, there are concerned organisations around the world that would encourage us to replant trees for our benefit or make some diseased trees healthy again.

If you have an old tree in your yard and you are indecisive on what to do with it, have it checked by tree surgeons. For a reason, such tree could have a sentimental value to your family, that’s why removing it is out of the question. If the tree is found to have been infected with something, you can make it healthy again.

Tips on maintaining a tree’s health

Water the tree. Watering plants is not an old school doing. Just like any plant, your tree needs water in order to survive. Just because the bark is thick, the tree is old and that it has survived for many years, does not mean it no longer needs care. Mature trees need to be watered at least once a week, especially if it hadn’t rained.
Trimming. Proper trimming of the tree is a healthy way to keep it alive. Pruning, as plant experts call it, is removing dead parts. Remove twigs, dead branches, dried leaves, and other unnecessary sights on your tree. This gives the tree a chance to breathe again and sprout new leaves, flowers, and fruit. Besides, a disorderly appearing tree is not pleasant to the sight.
Put mulch on the base. Removing weeds or dead grass at the base of the tree and replace it with mulch is making the soil underneath healthy. Mulch helps the roots to grow and restore their energy.
Fertilisers. Fertilisers help the soil in releasing nutrients. In common sense, when the soil is rich, and so is the tree. This will allow proper circulation of life from the roots to the leaves, giving your tree vibrant health.
Relocate. If your tree is young and just the moderate size, you can have it moved to another location in your yard where it can receive proper sunlight. Choose a spot in your lawn where it can enough or extend its canopy when the time comes. If you need more ideas on replanting, ask our arborists, as they have a deeper knowledge of tree care.

*Trees need sunlight; water and sunlight are two of the most essential needs of trees.*

When you think your tree is going to die and you are seeing some kind of disease but quite unsure of it, call the tree experts from Alpine Tree Surgeons. Our arborists are highly experienced tradespeople where they can figure out if your tree needs salvaging or cutting. Pests and bacteria on tree barks or base, and holes and moss could be signs of an ageing tree or a diseased tree. The presence of mosses on trees can be a sign of a healthy tree because they are also plants, but heavy and wet moss can cover the tree too much and slow the growth.

For the best move, call our tree experts. Alpine Tree Surgeons serve the areas and towns of the UK. With our trained tree surgeons, we ensure that your tree gets taken care of. Book a checkup now, and one of our staff will be more than happy to serve.

Keep your tree healthy and let it stand the test of time.

Is it necessary to remove a tree stump?

Posted on June 24, 2019June 24, 2019 by admin

Do you have an existing tree stump standing in your lawn for years now? Perhaps, you have no need of the lawn for some purpose if you are not enthusiastic about landscaping. When the time comes you might find the stump problematic in your surrounding, what will you do?

Removing a tree stump looks easy. You think you could use a handful of tools at home and uproot the stump by your own and get a little help from YouTube DIYs. Could a simple axe solve it? The task involved in removing a tree stump is quite risky because you are not aware of the pros and cons. Know what you are getting into before embarking on your mini stump removal journey.

Ask yourself: Is it smart to remove a tree stump by myself?

The answer will always depend: First, can you remove it by yourself? Do you have the proper tools to uproot it? If so, how fast can you do it?

Removing a tree stump has many benefits, but the common reason for removing is due to the aesthetics of your surroundings, or of your home specifically. It can be because you are taking care of a garden and you might not want to ruin what you have in mind. Or it could be that you want everybody’s safety, as the stump itself is not just an eyesore but could cause danger.

The first valid reason for removing a stump is to find why it has to be removed in the first place.

Getting rid of an eyesore

Plain and simple, it irritates you to see the shabby look of your lawn. It’s like having without a haircut for months! The beauty of trimming hedges and other plants in your garden is overwhelming when you see well-lined pots of flowering plants and well-tended trees. Abandoned tree stumps will have weeds grow on them, and this does not look clean and orderly. Give an immaculate look to your garden by getting rid of the stump.

Roots are stronger than you thought

How many times did you see a tree cut all the way down its trunk but keeps on giving out new shoots and fresh leaves? That’s happening to some unremoved tree stumps. The roots, which didn’t die unless the stump is removed including the roots, can regrow new ones if they get the chance.

*Problematic roots can damage properties*.

Swelling roots, even those trying to grow further, can damage the piping system within the soil. Water from burst pipes is an opportunity for roots to grow new ones. Also, the old roots which have been there for a time could destroy the concrete above your lawn when the soil eventually becomes weak. If this happens, you will need to excavate the spot and retrofit it accordingly.

Get rid of pests

Unremoved stumps with living roots beneath will harbour pests. Wood-boring insects thrive on tree stumps and proliferate. Worse is that other plants in your yard might be infected. Call an arborist right away if you think the stump in your lawn is a breeding site of insects. You couldn’t be aware of the damage pests and termites can do to your home.

Aesthetics

Homes with large lawns have more reasons to convert their place into something useful and attractive. If the space occupied by the stump lays there and is wasted, you can think of landscaping solutions or renovation ideas you wouldn’t have thought for a while. There are endless possibilities to convert that spot. Your creative ideas would soon kick in when you talk to a professional tree surgeon.

Have your place visited by licensed arborists. Here at Alpine Tree Surgeons, we have certified tradespeople who could handle simple and complicated tree surgery tasks. Just give us a call.

Maintain safety at home

Keep your home safe and your loved ones healthy. A clean lawn that does away from decayed tree stump will keep your pets and small children from sickness or danger. More than an eyesore, with the negative effects of old stumps, tree stumps should be checked and removed by an experienced tree surgeon. If you can’t handle the job alone, investing a little in having professionals keep your yard clean could be of much worth for your property’s resale value.

It is always a best decision to let the experts handle the job. Inquire about your problematic tree stump and we will take the matter to our skilled people.

What Do I need to Know about Removing a Tree?

Posted on June 19, 2019June 24, 2019 by admin

If removing a tree involves a problematic plant around your backyard and it is not that significant to call the experts in, perhaps, you may want to know how to cut the tree by yourself. We have witnessed many households doing their tree cutting in their own premises, believing that they can handle the job fair enough.

There are always risks involved in tree care. The job may well be quite easy and fun, but it is highly dangerous. When we are talking about tall and wide trees you may need the help of a professional. Tree experts, called tree surgeons, have special skills and experience to handle difficult jobs. Besides, a little expense won’t hurt but the worth you receive is more than ten times fold.

Having a tool does not mean you can cut a tree by your own.

If you insist on having a hand in removing your own tree, keep in mind that the risks involved are concerning and fatal. Climbing alone is a dangerous move, as you might encounter live electrical wires, rusty fences, insects, and slippery trunks where you could fall.

In this article, we will check out the techniques in removing a tree and how arborists carry them out.

Tips on cutting trees

Check the condition of the tree

Is removing the tree necessary? Is it a fruit tree where you benefit from its seasonal produce? If you feel the tree is a clutter, before aiming to axe it, tap its trunk. The tree could be dead if you hear a hollow sound when you tap it. But if the sound is solid, it means part of it is still alive. Cutting on a sturdy tree could be a challenge when you don’t know where to start. So, tapping could be a lot of help to determine the portions to cut first.

Assess your approach in cutting the tree

Where is the tree located? Do you need heavy equipment to pull it out when the cutting is done? Are there areas on your lawn that could be part of collateral damage when things go sideways? Picture the place and imagine how your equipment is going to crash into your site.

The responsibilities entail in tree felling are risky and sometimes fatal. You will need the help of someone expert in this field.

In tree felling, checking the drop zone is a crucial spot to avoid the risk of damaging lives and property. It is okay to leave the tree where it wants to lean and fall, but prepare the site where it would fall to prevent the tree from bouncing or rolling.

What tools you need

After careful examination of the location of the tree, check the tools you need to begin the tree cutting process. In this kind of job, you need an axe, chainsaw, grinders for stump removal, trucks with crane, and safety gears. If you can’t decide what tools are lacking, ask a tree service company, they can advise and provide what’s missing. Don’t forget hard hats and the correct clothing to include to your protective equipment.

How long would it take the tree to cut?

As you evaluate your tree, you may have a good guess how long will it take you to finish the job. It is a common intention to get it done right away, but there’s no need to rush. As they say, haste makes waste. Worse, you might encounter untoward incident if you insist on cutting the tree in the shortest time possible. Know the removal process before embarking on this dangerous journey. As suggested previously professional tree surgeons are the people required for these tasks – Click Here

Know what direction to go to avoid the falling tree

Knowing where to run or escape when the tree is about to blow down is keeping yourself safe, injury free, or alive. When running away from the direction of the falling tree, never turn your back. Also, if you’re the one cutting the tree, never stand directly behind it, because when it falls, it will snap on the cut, and remnants of the trunk might strike you when the whole tree go towards the opposite direction.

Let Alpine Tree Surgeons in Guildford help you

This tree removal undertaking is just the tip of the iceberg; there are more ways to learn. Life and property are precious wealth and should be protected from reckless tree felling or cutting. Hire the skill of a more knowledgeable person, such as certified tree surgeons, because you may never realise how vital your life depends on them until undesirable outcomes are met.

Complete your tree removal with us and make it a success. Have us send our arborist in your area or contact us to visit your site.

What qualifications should a tree surgeon have?

Posted on June 12, 2019June 12, 2019 by admin

A life-threatening job indeed, tree surgery risks the lives of tree surgeons in embarking on pruning or cutting down trees. The tree surgeon covers major responsibilities in removing unwanted trees in your surroundings. In order to carry out the job of a tree surgeon, he or she must possess certain qualifications, education, and certification in the industry. While the undertakings are crucial both for the life of humans and living plants and trees, tree surgeons should have had gained extensive training before they can be sent to the field.

*Tree surgeons are responsible for adding beauty to your community.*

In your community, you will notice that there are some places, such as parks, historical places, government institutions, or universities, and even sidewalks with plants, hedges, and trees well pruned and trimmed. You might wonder how they make their surroundings well kept and free from debris that might endanger passersby.

The people behind the beauty of a well-kept and maintained surroundings are the tree surgeons. Sometimes, they are called arborists.

What do you think these tree experts do and what skills they need in order to complete their job?

They must be:

Trained in handling power tools.
Experienced and highly skilled in aerial operations, such as tree climbing
Physically fit (tree surgeons are out in the open and experience different weather conditions).
Knowledgeable in conducting inspection and making assessment on trees’ health or if they are endangered or serve as threats to humans.
Observant of the safety rules in tree felling.
Skilled in chopping, felling, pruning, maintaining, and even planting trees.

How tree surgeons gain their qualifications in Guildford

Tree surgeons deal with enormously tall trees that require them to climb and cut problematic branches and trunk with efficiency. The mix of skill and knowledge in this kind of job is worth everybody’s praise.

In Guildford and surrounding areas in the UK, tree surgeons must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Further degree in arboriculture is encouraged but not required.

While tree felling involves working with heights and other dangerous undertakings, tree surgeons should follow safety standards to protect themselves from hazards.

What are the works involved?

Tree climbing—Climbing gears and chainsaws are tools needed by an arborist to climb a tree. Natural disasters bring trees devastated by storms. Tree surgeons take a major part in cleaning up such a mess.
Using climbing spurs—Spurs are dug on tree barks that will serve as a leverage for tree surgeons to climb up the tree, along with using lanyards.
Rope throwing bundle—This not a bungee jumper act but a skill needed by an arborist to make sure they are securely fastened to be able to move their body up and down the ground.
Pruning—It’s not a botanist’s job but something that has to with pruning, insect control, fertilisation, and maintaining trees’ health.
Machine operation—This involves the use of cranes, stump grinder, all kinds of chainsaw, and other heavy equipment in tree felling.

Who we are

Alpine Tree Surgeons in Guildford prefer to be called “surgeons” as it sounds more appealing and easier to understand. Though tree surgeons and arborists can, in fact, be used interchangeably, we chose the lighter side so our customers would better identify us as someone who treats and cure trees in all aspects.

A tree surgeon’s job is physically demanding, and yet, our tradespeople here at Alpine Tree Surgeons enjoy what they do. We take pride in offering our services for commercial, government, or residential settings. Our work is extremely important and helpful for the overall environmental health of our communities. Besides, our tree surgeons are qualified, licensed, and certified in their chosen field.

There are no small or big jobs for Alpine Tree Surgeons. Just give us a call and we’ll deal straight away with your queries.

What Is There to Know About Hedge Trimming?

Posted on June 6, 2019May 30, 2019 by admin

Hedge trimming or hedge cutting is trimming tall hedges or overgrown shrubs for many purposes. Passersby would only have the impression that hedges are trimmed for landscaping. A beautiful landscape reflects an eco-friendly environment.

However, there’s more to hedge cutting than simply trimming the overgrowth.

The principle in trimming hedges goes primarily with cleaning the place and making it appear pleasant with plants cut and shaped into different forms. Hedge trimming, too, now becomes an art. If you have seen various shapes of plants formed into what the imagination of the trimmers can do, you can only admire how they were able to come up with masterpieces and works of art that simulate sculpture.

Hedges, too, serve as boundaries for homes or sidewalks and yards lined with shrubs and trees. When branches are sticking out, dead leaves fall frequently. Hedge cutting prevents the place from being cluttered with unwanted parts of the plants. A tree standing on a non-strategic spot, and whose branches and fruits are unpleasant seen, can also be included in the trimming job.

Techniques in pruning

Pruning involves cutting overgrown plants by removing first the thickest branch, starting from the base to promote regrowth. For new hedges, they need to be pruned for the first two years after they have been planted. This is called maintenance trimming. It usually conducted at least once in a year or twice for informal hedges. Bur formal hedges need at least three times in a year.

When is the best time to trim?

If you opt for maintenance trimming, the best times of the year should happen in the middle of spring and summer. However, this is not always the case. What’s important is knowing the proper timing of pruning ensures productive, healthy, and attractive plants. Shrubs and trees have their different pruning time, according to plant experts.

Plants covered for trimming are deciduous trees and plants. Deciduous plants are those that shed their leaves every fall. Most of the trees that shed are those with broad, wide, and flat leaves.

Deciduous shrubs, on the other hand, are pruned or trimmed based on their growth habit, season of blooming, or health.

For example, neglected flowering shrubs should be pruned by early spring or late winter to relive the plants. The purpose of rejuvenation is to restore the plant’s health. For healthy and maintained shrubs, they can be pruned after their flowering season, and they only require light pruning. This way, you’re giving ample time for these plants to grow flowers anew intended for the coming season.

Importance of trimming

Trimming shrubs or hedges are not only to improve the home landscape. Admittedly, they serve a valuable part in your garden, offering beautiful and colorful foliage, flowers, or fruits. More than these, shrubs provide a sense of privacy, blocking the unnecessary view of your home or the streets. They also serve to attract wildlife.

Proper and regular pruning keep your shrubs in good shape and health.

Other reasons for hedge trimming is when the plants encounter different problems:

Nesting of wild birds on your shrubs or trees could damage the plant.
Overgrown branches on the pavement block pedestrians and walkways.
Extended branches and thick foliage can entangle with electrical wirings on the street.

Safety trimming methods

When trimming hedges, you need to have shears. Shears are best for small shrubs those below eye level. But for larger shrubs, an electric trimmer or the one run by petrol is better to cut thicker stems. A sharp or well-lubricated shear provides greater efficiency in trimming your plants.

For safety, it is always recommended to wear goggles to keep your eyes from catching shredded plant remnants. Gloves protect your hands against the weight of the shear and from picking loose stems and leaves compared to bare hands.

When using power tools, make sure you are using a ladder or a sturdy platform to reach for the problematic hedge. Using such tools above your shoulder is a little dangerous as you can lose control of the equipment, especially when it is connected to an electrical outlet. Check the cable and see that it does not entangle with anything on the ground or serve as an obstacle.

For a better understanding of overgrown hedges, ask our team of tree surgeons. They have years of experience and training in handling nuisance hedges. Arborists in Alpine Tree Surgeons can help you for hedge and shrub trimming tips and provide you information on step-by-step pruning method.