Remove That Tree or Give It TLC? How Crown Lifting Can Help
Posted on: 23 February 2017
Trees are beautiful features in any garden, and if you're lucky enough to have a mature tree in your backyard, its impact on the landscape is such that it can dramatically improve the entire look of your outdoor space. Until it doesn't. The problem is, as naturally growing plants, you can't plan exactly how a tree will grow, which can lead to problems.
Factors such as blocked views, restricted sunlight and hazardous branches could have you considering removing a tree entirely, but that only needs to be a last resort. Tree care procedures could fix the problem so you can keep your tree and enjoy your garden as before. Crown lifting is one such procedure, an ideal solution for troublesome low branches.
When does a tree need crown lifting? Generally speaking, there are a number of problems that might lead to crown lifting as a suggested course of action, all of which relate to the lower branches of the tree. These problems should normally be easy for you to spot. Next to paths or roads, the low branches might overhang and cause a hazard to drivers or pedestrians. Closer to your home, a tree's branches may have grown in such a way that they're likely to damage the structure. They may also have begun to block the view, block light from other plants, or darken a favourite sitting spot. Alternatively, it might be done simply to increase the aesthetic appeal of a tree. It can make it look taller or more impressive.
How is it carried out? Crown lifting isn't possible with all trees, especially if they're particularly old, so a tree care specialist will first assess whether it's a suitable procedure. If it is, the age of the tree might also affect which branches can be removed. The problem branches will be carefully removed, most likely using a chainsaw. Usually, no more than 1/3 of the tree's total height will be removed, but an expert will decide how much is appropriate. They will also most likely leave any branches that are particularly large, as removing them can stress the tree.
What happens next? In many instances, you'll be free to enjoy your transformed tree with all the former problems dealt with and no need to have it removed. If a lot of branches need to be removed, this may be done in more than one session over a longer period of time. This is to ensure the tree remains healthy, safe and stable, but the end result will be the same.
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