Tree Services LTD
FAQ's
Got questions about tree care, safety, or our services? You're in the right place. Below you'll find answers to the most commonly asked questions about our tree surgery work across London, including hedge trimming, tree removal, stump grinding, and more.
Whether you're unsure about permissions, want to know when to prune your trees, or need advice before booking—our FAQ section is here to help you make informed decisions.
Q: Can I remove/reduce any tree on my property?
A: You may be able to carry out tree work on your property, but first, you must check whether the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or if your property is in a conservation area. If it is, you or your tree surgeon must apply for permission from the local council before any work can begin.
Q: Why cant I cut my conifer hedge hard?
A: Conifers like Leylandii and Thuja don’t regenerate well from old wood. If you cut back too hard—beyond the green growth—you’ll likely be left with permanent brown patches that won’t grow back. Gentle, regular trimming is best.
Q: What is the difference between Pollarding and Pruning?
A: Pruning is light trimming to remove dead or overgrown branches and shape a tree or shrub.
Pollarding is a more severe cut, reducing a tree’s size by cutting back to main stems, often done to control growth in urban spaces.
Q: Why has my tree grown back so quickly after being pollard?
A: After pollarding, trees often respond with vigorous regrowth. This happens because the tree is trying to quickly replace the leaf area it lost, which it needs for photosynthesis. The new shoots can grow fast and look quite wild or unshaped. Regular maintenance is key—once a tree has been pollard, it usually needs repeat trimming every 1–3 years to keep the growth under control and the tree in good condition.
Q: What is the best hedge to have for privacy in my front garden?
A: The best choice for year-round privacy is an evergreen hedge, such as conifers, laurel, or holly. These keep their foliage all year and provide excellent screening. Beech hedges, while deciduous, also offer good privacy as their leaves turn brown but often stay on the branches through winter. Your choice depends on your budget, preferred style, and what plants thrive in your garden’s conditions.
Q: What is OPM?
A: The Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) is a common pest found on oak trees. Its caterpillars feed on oak leaves, which can weaken the tree over time. They are covered in tiny hairs that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in people and pets. The period of greatest OPM risk is typically April to July, but hairs can persist in nests and on bark year-round If you spot OPM on your oak trees, it’s important to get professional help to safely remove and control them.
Q: My neighbours tree is overhanging my garden, what can I do?
A: You have the legal right to cut back branches that overhang your property—but only to your boundary. If the tree is protected by a TPO or is in a conservation area, you must get council permission first. Always check before carrying out work.
Q: What is Ash dieback and how do I know if my ash tree has it?
A: Ash dieback is a serious fungal disease affecting ash trees, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. Ash dieback causes leaf loss, dead branches, blackened leaves, and stem lesions (often diamond-shaped). You can identify it by spotting wilting leaves, thinning crowns, and blackened shoots. There’s no effective cure yet, so management focuses on reducing risks from affected trees and supporting resistant ones.
Q: How can I tell if my tree is diseased?
A: Common signs of a diseased tree include:
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Wilting or discoloured leaves
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Dead or dying branches
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Cracks or lesions on the bark
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Unusual growths like fungi or cankers
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Excessive leaf loss or sparse foliage
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to have a professional tree surgeon inspect your tree to diagnose the problem and recommend treatment.
Q: What is the point in a TPO or a conservation area?
A: A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) protects specific trees or woodlands from being felled, pruned, or damaged without permission. Conservation areas protect the overall character of a location, including trees. Both exist to preserve valuable natural and historic features.
Q: How can I find out if a tree on my property has a TPO or if I’m in a conservation area?
A: Visit your local council’s website and search for Tree Preservation Orders or Conservation Areas. Many councils offer interactive maps where you can enter your address. You can also contact the tree officer for confirmation. A professional tree surgeon can assist with this check before any work is done.
Q: What should I do if I want tree work done but the tree has a TPO or is in a conservation area?
A: If your tree has a TPO or is in a conservation area, you must apply to your local council before any work. Councils must respond to conservation area notices within 6 weeks, while decisions on TPO applications can take up to 8 weeks.