Crown Reduction, Thinning & Lifting in Wiltshire
Crown management is one of the most common reasons homeowners and businesses call a tree surgeon. Johnsons Arborist provides professional crown reduction, crown thinning and crown lifting services across Melksham, Chippenham, Devizes, Calne, Trowbridge, Bath and the wider Wiltshire area.
All crown work is carried out by City & Guilds qualified arborists in line with British Standard 3998, ensuring the long term health and structural integrity of your trees is maintained throughout.
What is Crown Reduction?
Crown reduction involves reducing the overall height and spread of a tree's canopy while retaining its natural shape and balance. It is one of the most skilful operations in arboriculture - done well, a reduced tree should look like a naturally smaller version of itself, with no visible signs of heavy cutting.
Crown reduction is typically carried out where a tree has outgrown its surroundings, is causing shading to a property or garden, is affecting neighbouring properties, or has become too large for the space it occupies. It can also help reduce the risk of branch failure in large or mature trees.
What is Crown Thinning?
Crown thinning involves the selective removal of branches from within the canopy to reduce its density without significantly altering the overall size or shape of the tree. The result is improved light penetration through the canopy, better air circulation, and reduced wind resistance - all of which benefit both the tree and the surrounding garden.
Crown thinning is particularly effective for large trees that are casting too much shade but where reducing the overall size would not be appropriate or desirable.
What is Crown Lifting?
Crown lifting involves removing the lower branches of a tree to increase the clearance between the ground and the base of the canopy. This is commonly carried out to improve access beneath the tree, increase light levels at ground level, improve visibility for vehicles or pedestrians, or to clear branches away from buildings, walls or street furniture.
Crown lifting is a relatively straightforward operation but should always be carried out by a qualified arborist to avoid over-lifting, which can affect the long term health and stability of the tree.
Why British Standard 3998 Matters
All crown work carried out by Johnsons Arborist follows British Standard 3998 - the benchmark for tree work in the UK. This standard sets out best practice for all aspects of tree surgery, from the pruning cuts made to the overall approach to the work. Choosing a contractor who works to BS3998 ensures your trees are managed in a way that protects their long term health and structural integrity.
Tree Preservation Orders & Crown Work
If your tree is subject to a Tree Preservation Order or sits within a conservation area, you will need prior consent from the local authority before any crown work can be carried out. We handle the application process on your behalf as part of our service and can advise on the likely timescales involved. If you are unsure whether your tree is protected, just ask when you get in touch and we will check for you.
AREAS WE COVER
Crown Reduction Across Wiltshire
We provide crown reduction, thinning and lifting services across Wiltshire and the surrounding area, including:
Melksham and surrounding villages
Chippenham and Corsham
Calne and the surrounding area
Devizes and surrounding villages
Trowbridge and Bradford on Avon
Bath and surrounding area
Marlborough and the Vale of Pewsey
Warminster and Westbury
FAQ’S
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should be removed in a crown reduction?
As a general rule no more than 30% of the crown should be removed in a single operation. Removing more than this can cause significant stress to the tree and increase the risk of disease and structural failure. We will always advise on the appropriate amount to remove when we assess your tree.
How often does a tree need crown reduction?
This varies depending on the species and growth rate. Some trees may need attention every three to five years, while others grow more slowly and require less frequent work. We can advise on a maintenance programme when we visit.
Will crown reduction affect the health of my tree?
When carried out correctly in line with BS3998, crown reduction should not significantly affect the long term health of the tree. Poor pruning technique however can cause lasting damage, which is why it is important to use a qualified arborist.
Can crown work be carried out on a protected tree?
Yes, but prior consent from the local authority is required. We handle the application process on your behalf and will advise on the likely outcome before submitting.
What is the difference between crown reduction and pollarding?
Crown reduction retains the natural shape of the tree and removes a modest amount of growth. Pollarding is a more severe operation that removes all or most of the canopy back to the main trunk or a framework of branches. We offer both services and will advise on which is most appropriate for your tree.
Get a Free Quote for Crown Reduction in Wiltshire
Contact Johnsons Arborist today for a free, no obligation visit and quote. We cover Melksham, Chippenham, Devizes, Calne, Trowbridge, Bath and the surrounding areas of Wiltshire.