A Crown reduction is the uniform shortening of branches to reduce the overall size of the canopy. A trees appearance or form can be enhanced by a crown reduction and the amenity value of the tree increased.
Crown reduction is often the method used to allow a large tree to be retained in limited space or to keep the tree to a preferred size.
If there are safety concerns about the structural integrity or root system of a tree then a crown reduction can be employed to reduce the sail effect of the wind on a tree and therefore reduce stress on branches, improving safety and the long term safety of the tree.
As a general rule we would specify a reduction as either 10%, 20% or 30%, the percentage refers to the amount of foliage removed and not a percentage of the height. If a tree is reduced too much it will often reshoot vigorously which can result in increased maintenance costs and less light filtering through the canopy.
Not all tree species or specimens are suitable for crown reduction, as not all trees or species are able to withstand this treatment; therefore each tree is assessed in regards to its suitability for this type of work. Both the species characteristics and condition of the individual specimen is taken into account before we make recommendations for a crown reduction.
The original crown shape is normally mirrored to maintain the form and balance of the tree but obviously reduced in size to a suitable growth point. Unless there is a need to change this for structural integrity of the tree.
AA Tree Surgeons offer a wide range of tree surgery, for more information on these, please navigate to the relevant sections above or contact us directly on 01332 803728 or 07957624803
