Tree care
Are there any controls on the type of tree I can plant in my garden?
There are no controls on the type of tree that can be planted in your garden. However, a number of points are worth considering.
- How much space is available? It is always best to ensure the space is sufficient to accommodate the tree.
- Are there any overhead wires or obstructions?
- In what position is the tree in comparison to the property? A new tree to the south or west may block afternoon or evening sun, while a tree to the north will not restrict direct light from entering the building.
Caring for your Trees
My tree needs to be pruned, what should I do?
In many cases the best form of tree management is not to prune at all. Pruning disrupts the natural state of the tree and also creates opportunities for decay fungi to enter the tree. If you feel you must prune your tree it is best to mimic nature. Crown reduction (i.e. making a tree smaller in size by overall pruning) is generally a bad form of tree management, as it is very unnatural for the tree and often stimulates vigorous regrowth. If you feel you must prune your tree then decide what you want to achieve first and only carry out work that will do this. Such work should normally take the form of:
- Crown Lifting - The removal of branches from ground level to a specified height, usually expressed in meters and ultimately producing a clear stem. It is important that no branches bigger than 1/3rd the size of the associated tree stem are removed, as such wounds can create a weakness on the tree.
- Crown thinning - This is the thinning of the overall canopy of the tree usually by no more than 20%. The tree will remain the same size but the canopy will be thinner, allowing more light to penetrate. Such work is unlikely to stimulate vigorous regrowth.
- Deadwooding - Removing the deadwood from a tree is beneficial.
Before undertaking any work it is worth checking to see if the tree is covered by a Tree Preservation Order or stands in a Conservation Area. See our protected trees pages
When should I prune my trees?
Ideally trees should be pruned when dormant (Nov-Feb). However, certain species should be pruned in the summer, for example Cherry. Avoid the period when the tree is coming out of the dormant period. Incorrect pruning during late March, April and May can induce 'bleeding' where the rising sap weeps from the tree. This can severely stress the tree, disrupting its natural balance at a very important time. If you have concerns about the work you intend to do consult a professional tree surgeon. It is also important not to disturb nesting birds or roosting/hibernating bats.
Can you recommend a tree surgeon or tree consultant?
Details of tree contractors or tree consultants are available from the Arboricultural Association on (01794) 368 978. www.trees.org.uk. More information on tree surgeons.
Does ivy damage trees?
Ivy uses trees for support but does not feed on the tree. Generally healthy trees will not allow ivy to become fully established. However, as trees age their crowns may begin to allow more light to penetrate. In such situations the extra light can stimulate growth in the ivy at the expense of the tree which subsequently declines.
Ivy tends to establish itself in deciduous trees. These trees lose their leaves in winter, to lower their wind resistance. Because ivy is evergreen, it raises the wind resistance and increases its weight which means that the tree is more likely to suffer damage in stormy conditions.
In addition, the presence of ivy can hinder tree inspections and may conceal serious defects in a tree. To remove ivy from the tree you will need to cut away a section about an inch in length further down to isolate the growth towards the top of the tree. This will then die back and fall away or can be pulled from the tree.
How can I tell if my tree is safe?
Such assessments are best made by qualified experts. Details of tree consultants are available from the Arboricultural Association on (01794) 368 978. www.trees.org.uk
My tree doesn't look very healthy can the Council advise me? If not where else can I seek advice?
If your tree is covered by a Tree Preservation Order or you live in a Conservation Area the Council will be able to advise regarding the health of your tree. Otherwise, if you are concerned about the health of your tree, you should contact an Arboricultural Consultant. A full list is available from the Arboricultural Association on (01794) 368 978.www.trees.org.uk
My tree has a fungus growing on it, does this make the tree unsafe?
There are many types of fungi that affect wood. They are often indicative of a wider problem and are a valuable tool in diagnosing what may be wrong with your tree. They are also an invaluable habitat for rare insects and beetles and should not be removed from the tree. Removing fungal fruiting bodies from trees will not get rid of the fungus since it is usually by this stage well established within the tree. If you find fungi growing on your tree call an expert to help identify the potential problem. If you are worried about your children coming into contact with the fungus contact the Council to arrange a site visit. A full list of Arboricultural Consultants is available from the Arboricultural Association, Tel: 01794 368 717.www.trees.org.uk
What can I do about grey squirrels in my tree?
If you require information on control of grey squirrels contact a local pest control firm. You can find details in the Yellow Pages.
Will the Council assist in taking away leaves or wood?
You can now have your garden waste collected for recycling from outside your property by either purchasing our special compostable sacks (£1 each including collection) or by renting one of our new green waste collection wheeled bins (bin and collection fee = £30 per year).
My tree drops a sticky substance, what can I do about it?
Certain species of trees are susceptible to aphids that feed on the sap through veins on the leaves. Because the sap has a very low nutritional content the aphids must feed on a very high volume and they discharge the excess as a sticky sugar solution while they are feeding. There is very little that can be done to resolve the problem. Spraying is often not practicable. Fortunately, the sugar solution is only a mild one and should not affect paintwork on cars, if the car is washed at regular intervals. Regular washing will also help to prevent a growth of sooty mould on the sugar solution deposits which can develop over time.
We are grateful to the Woking Borough Council for permission to use this content www.woking.gov.uk