Looking after the trees in your garden

Know your tree surgeon

Paying tree surgeons to prune or cut down your tree can be very expensive, so it’s important to know that the people you’re paying know what they’re doing. It may be hard to believe but it is possible to start up your own tree surgery business with as little as 8 weeks training, all you need is a van, wood-chipper, a couple of chainsaws and insurance! Although the practical training and qualifications are of a high standard it in no way sets up the tree surgeon for the complications of commercial and domestic tree work. They may be a lot cheaper, but are you willing to place your most treasured asset, your house and garden, in their hands?

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One of the most important things to know as a tree owner is where you stand in terms of the law. You legally have a ‘duty of care’ to your trees, so if your tree causes harm to people, animals or property you may be found negligent. If you have a contractor working for you, then both you and the contractor will have duties under health and safety law. It takes years of experience to understand the bio-mechanics and body language of trees so it is essential to make sure you’re receiving the correct advice from a competent professional. You should always ask your tree surgeon what qualifications they have and the number of years of their practical experience. In my opinion they should have a minimum of 5 years practical experience and a minimum level 4 qualification from a reputable arboricultural college. Last of all you must check the level of insurance cover your tree surgeon holds, if he doesn't have insurance then it is you that will have to bite the bullet if things go wrong!

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I often get asked how you know if you’re being given bad advice, some companies may tell you that your tree isn't safe as it’s in their interest to generate work for themselves. A good thing to look out for is if your tree surgeon is a member of the Arboricultural Association, this will give you peace of mind as you know they have been approved and assessed.

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What can you do to keep your tree healthy

Not all tree work requires a tree surgeon, there are many things you can do to help your tree thrive in your garden. Here are five practical tips to keeping your tree healthy.

1. Mulch – One of the best things you can do for your tree is to spread a single layer of wood bark mulch around the base of your tree, make sure not to pile up the mulch too close to the trunk as this can suffocate roots.

2. Compaction – Try to avoid walking under the canopy of your tree as they benefit from aerated soils.

3. Grass cuttings – An easy way to kill your tree is to place mounds of cut grass under the canopy. The grass cuttings will draw out much needed nitrogen from the soil which is essential for trees.

4. Newly planted trees – Always water your tree immediately after planting. If the tree is being supported by a stake or cane make sure to loosen off the ties as the tree grows. If left alone it can damage the bark allowing disease and pathogens to enter.

5. Know your tree – Many diseases are species specific, so if you spot a fungus a little research can help identify the affects it may be having on your tree. Of course it is always best to consult your arborist as they will have an in depth knowledge on the extent of decay these diseases may have.

Written by

Elliott Foulkes (Dip Arb L4 ABC, TechArborA).

Tel: 01483 850688 Mobile: 07460 879833

email: elliott@surreytreeconsultant.co.uk

www.surreytreeconsultant.co.uk