Axminster Tree Surgeons (EX13) Devon: Trees are a crucial feature of many properties and gardens in Axminster, and they can often transform a largely two dimensional area by adding substance, structure and style. But problems may arise when trees have been neglected or are impacted by extreme weather events such as high winds or flooding. If your trees need attention, it is the safest option to consult an established tree surgeon in Axminster, for their guidance before any work begins.
Those who employ a non-qualified operative, or try to do tree work by themselves, may cause a risk of damage to the trees, to property and to life. But even hiring an established tree surgeon who knows all the hazards doesn't necessarily mean that tree work is entirely safe. Tree surgery is definitely not a task for novices, and on average there are a hundred and forty serious injuries and three deaths each year within the industry, making it among the most hazardous jobs in Britain.
With around 5 people annually being fatally wounded by falling branches and trees in the UK, even a damaged or poorly maintained tree can also present a danger to life. If property is damaged, or an injury occurs due to you hiring somebody to do tree work, you could be liable to third-party compensation claims. These are just some of the reasons why employing a trained Axminster tree surgeon to do the work on your trees is important. (Source - HSE).
SELECTING A TREE SURGEON IN AXMINSTER - There are 2 principal industry bodies, one or both of which a certified Axminster tree surgeon should be a registered member of. The websites of both the Arboricultural Association and the International Society of Arboriculture allow you to check out the membership and professional standing of any tree surgeon in Axminster. This webpage enables you to check if any particular tree surgeon has recognised Approved ARB Contractor status, and has membership of either of these organisations.
If there is a problem during the work, or after it's been completed you'll be able to communicate with these industry organisations for arbitration assistance and for guidance and help.
You should not be frightened to decline the offer of a price quote from somebody who is not on this directory list, as at the end of the day, it is an approved contractor who you are actually looking for. You should try and get a minimum of three different estimates from various companies in Axminster as soon as you are reassured of their professional memberships and accreditations. Whilst obtaining these quotes you should ask the following questions, making it abundantly clear that you need the answers due to the risks of the work involved:
- Can I contact a recent person you have worked for so I can check the quality of your tree work? It's always advisable to carry out an independent examination of recently accomplished work.
- Do you have documents to show that you have the recommended qualifications, membership of the ISA or AA, and also a certificate for basic chainsaw use from the NPTC? Any worker/tree surgeon who uses a chainsaw, must by law hold NPTC/LANTRA certification. Qualifications may include Certificates and National Diplomas in Arboriculture.
- Exactly what level of insurance cover have you got? As suggested by the ISA and AA, your tree surgeon should be able to produce a certificate covering a minimum of five million pounds public liability insurance.
- Do you provide written quotations? Only ever accept a written quote. NEVER settle for a verbal quote alone.
On the written quote that you receive, you'll need there to be easy to understand details of all the tree work that is to be undertaken. It should state whose responsibility it is to remove tree branches, stumps and waste, and should also include information on any trees which could be protected, and the steps needed to get permission to carry out work on them. Double check that VAT has also been included on the quote. It is extremely important to recognise that you've got a responsibility to employ only trained tradespeople to work on your property and trees. This is laid out by the "Common law duty of care responsibilities and sometimes liabilities under the Occupier's Liability Acts of 1957 and 1984."
PRIOR TO WORK - Finding out whether any of your trees are protected, your selected Axminster tree surgeon should ensure that any tree work gets the go-ahead from the appropriate local authority. Even protected trees need maintenance so as to cut back old or damaged wood and ensure public safety, so finding a tree has protected status does not imply that work cannot still be carried out.
If your property in Axminster is located inside a designated conservation area, the Local Planning Authority (LPA) will require no less than 6 weeks written notice of any tree work you are intending to do. This written notice isn't required if the tree stem is under 7.5 centimetres in diameter when measured at 1.5m above the ground. Notice is also not a requirement if pruning or thinning of a protected tree's branches is crucial in order to promote and sustain growth.
On site they'll conduct a full assessment of your trees and decide on the necessary remedial treatment and how best to achieve the required outcome in a safe manner. Your property, public areas and any sections of neighbouring properties that could be impacted by falling branches and debris will all be given a risk assessment. This stage will also determine the level of protection needed and the amount of operatives required. To keep the public and other property safe from harm or damage, this will include both personal protection equipment and other safety measures.
ON THE DAY OF WORK - Barriers and safety measures will be put in place before any cutting of branches, climbing or tree felling is started, to keep unauthorised persons away from the area of work. Where there is the chance of debris and branches crashing onto a public road, it might be necessary to briefly halt the traffic.
Different kinds of tree work will require the tree surgeon to have different degrees of protection. When carrying out basic work with a chainsaw, to avoid serious cutting injuries to the legs, torso and hands, they will as a bare minimum be wearing protective clothing. Every worker involved in the operation, must at all times be wearing eye and head protection, and high visibility clothing.
If any working at height is involved, climbing equipment and ladders will need to be deployed, and extra personnel will be there to help with the removal of high branches and heavy pieces of tree trunk. It's recommended that you inform your next door neighbours of the need for easy access, as a skip or other means of transporting the waste materials away will be parked as close as possible to the work area.
AFTER COMPLETION OF WORK - On completion of all the tree work, the area can be cleared of any debris, and all the branches and waste can be transported away. Your tree surgeon will then prepare and sign off a certificate of work, a copy of which will be given to you. This is especially important where trees covered by a protection order are concerned. If there were any public spaces that needed safety measures, this can be taken away and footpaths and highways will be re-opened.
Problems or issues should be fixed straight away by approaching your tree surgeon directly. If your tree surgeon is an approved member of a trade association, you can get guidance and advice from the Arboricultural Association or the International Society of Arboriculture so as to arrive at a satisfactory solution, if any further arbitration is required.
Ash Dieback (Hymenoscyphus Fraxineus)
A deadly fungal disease of ash trees that was first documented in the UK in 2012, ash dieback is expected to wipe out approximately eighty percent of the current ash trees. Following the Dutch Elm Disease tragedy, which decimated Great Britain's elm trees, ash dieback is set to have huge repercussions for our countryside.
Ash dieback has an especially disastrous effect on the native Fraxinus excelsior (common ash), British Fraxinus excelsior (common ash), although it affects the entire Fraxinus genus of trees, which have varying degrees of tolerance. The fungus which causes ash dieback is named Hymenoscyphus fraxineus (H. fraxineus), and it originally came from Asia.
Ash dieback has now spread to most parts of Britain, and is dispersed by wind blown spores which can travel for many miles, quickening the whole process.
The conspicuous symptoms of ash dieback are:
- Dark patches on leaves during mid to late summer.
- New epicormic growth appearing from previously dormant buds (common in stressed trees).
- Dying leaves and shoots are visible in summer.
- Wilting leaves that turn black in colour and fall early.
- Dark brown lesions (often diamond shaped) form where limbs join the trunk.
Ash trees can fight the disease to a certain degree, but ultimately succumb to sustained attacks. Because it's an airborne disease there's no obvious strategy for stopping its spread, and no cure for chalara ash dieback.
If you think that you have spotted a case of ash dieback in your garden in Axminster, or someplace else in the neighbourhood, you can report it to the Forestry Commission's "Tree Alert Service", although chalara ash dieback is so widespread throughout the United Kingdom that they are only really interested to know about cases discovered in locations not affected previously. You should still however speak to a local tree surgeon, who can offer guidance and advice on how best to proceed.
Air-Spading Axminster
When you've got worries about the health of a tree, this may be down to any number of problems, but it is quite frequently because of issues with the root system. So as to check for soil compaction, root rot, or other problems, a local Axminster tree surgeon might need to access the roots of your tree.
During the past this was tricky, due to the chance of damaging the roots during the digging down process. A process called "air spading" is employed by some modern day tree surgeons in Axminster, and this enables compacted soil to be broken up and removed by using compressed air, which avoids causing any harm or damage to the tree's root system or nearby utilities.
Sometimes, heavy foot traffic, passing vehicles or construction work can cause the soil around a tree's roots to become compacted, and this can have a negative effect on its health. When a tree is "stressed" it can become more prone to attacks by disease, insects and pests, and this stress can be caused by a lack of nutrients and water. Root flare problems can also be an issue, where the flare at the base of the trunk becomes covered with an excess of soil, causing tissue breakdown, and heightening the chance of root decay. Air-spading is a useful technique for correcting this.
The innovative air spading process involves the use of an air compressor and an air-spade which blows air directly into the soil at a speed of 1200mph, the air enters the voids in the soil and immediately breaks it down, whilst leaving tree roots and utility lines untouched. This fast air flow blows the soil away from the roots, enabling immediate inspection and assessment. A solution can then be implemented for any problems, and the soil replaced with chip mulch and fertiliser to help rejuvenate the tree. (Tags: Air-Spading Axminster, Air-Spade Axminster, Air-Spade Investigations Axminster).
Hedge Trimming Axminster
Although the maintenance and care of trees and shrubs is the main focus of tree surgeons in Axminster, they are regularly asked to undertake work on hedges, for instance trimming and height reduction. Using a tree surgeon could be a huge benefit when dealing with conifer hedges such as Leylandii, which can often get too tall for a regular or householder to cope with, needing specialist tools to successfully manage.
A hedge which is neglected or poorly maintained will soon become overgrown and fairly quickly get out of control. If you prefer to have a hedge that does not overwhelm large parts of your garden in Axminster, routine trimming is recommended, and this is imperative not simply for visual reasons, but also to make your hedge much stronger and healthier.
You can help make your entire garden and home look neat by tidily clipping your hedges. And if you are considering selling your property in the future, neat hedges could even add some extra value. You should also be able to obtain hedge trimming services in Abbey Gate, Churchill, Weycroft, Millbrook, Uplyme, Shute, Sector, Marshwood, Thorncombe, Alston, Kilmington, Musbury, Membury, Smallridge, Dalwood, and Axminster itself. (Tags: Hedge Cutting Axminster, Hedge Shaping Axminster, Hedge Trimming Axminster, Hedge Clipping Axminster).
Tree Removal Axminster
Tree removal can often be a necessary step when a tree starts to become dangerous, is diseased, or just grows too big for its environment. Though we all appreciate trees as they are integral to our surroundings, there are moments when they can present hazards to nearby properties or people. Things like overhanging branches, root damage, or the fear of a tree falling down may render removal the safest choice. It's certainly not something to take lightly, but when required, it can make your outdoor space in Axminster safer and more usable, allowing for greater peace of mind.
The process of tree removal isn't as straightforward as it might seem, particularly for larger trees. It requires careful planning and the right equipment to ensure it's done safely and efficiently. Professional tree surgeons have the expertise to assess the tree and determine the best way to remove it with minimal impact on the surrounding area. They'll also handle the disposal of the tree, saving you the hassle. Attempting to remove a tree yourself can be risky, so hiring an expert is always the best course of action for complex or large-scale jobs.
Once a tree is gone, new possibilities emerge for your outdoor space. The extra light benefits nearby plants, and the cleared area can be used for new features like a patio, driveway, or garden enhancement. For safety reasons or to improve your garden's layout, thoughtful tree removal can transform your Axminster garden, making it more enjoyable for years to come. (Tags: Tree Removal Axminster).
Fundamental Skills for Tree Surgeons in Axminster
- Be professional and able to complete tasks within a set period.
- Be capable of maintaining, using and repairing tools and equipment.
- Be conscious of the dangers and complexities involved in all aspects of work.
- To be able to undertake basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device.
- Physical skills such as movement and coordination.
- Be able to work with your hands.
- Customer service skills.
- Being able to work alongside other folks.
- To be methodical and pay attention to detail.
- Have a good understanding of public security and safety.
- Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
Dutch Elm Disease
A fungal disease which has killed millions of elm trees throughout the British Isles over the past 50 yrs or more, Dutch Elm Disease (Ophiostoma novo-ulmi) isn't quite the concern that it once was. Caused by the fungus Ophiostoma novo-ulmi which is spread by the elm bark beetle, DED (Dutch Elm Disease) was imported into the UK accidentally in the Sixties from Canada.
Through the nationwide movement of elm products such as saplings, bark mulch, elm crates, and logs with the bark still attached, it was spread quickly through the UK after its initial arrival. Dutch Elm Disease did not only affect the United Kingdom, but also devastated elm stocks in continental Europe, North America and New Zealand, it is believed to have originally come from Asia (most likely Japan).
The first symptoms of Dutch Elm Disease are:
- Twigs with dark streaks beneath the bark.
- New shoots dying back from the tips.
- Clusters of leaves turning yellow and wilting.
- A "shepherd's crook" reaction on affected twigs.
It generally starts to show up in early summer.
The felling of infected, dying and dead trees, has essentially removed the favourite habitat of the elm bark beetle, and in recent times the spread of this disease has been substantially slowed down. New plants have also been propagated from trees that have proved resistant so far.
You can ask for a diagnosis from the Tree Health Diagnostic & Advisory Service (THDAS), or you can contact your local tree surgeon for guidance, if you have elm trees in your garden in Axminster, and have suspicions that they might be infected with Dutch Elm Disease.
Trees of the genus Ulmcae and Zelkova are affected.
Spread by - small beetles of the Scolytus and Hylorgopinus genera.
Cause - fungi Ophiostoma Novo-Ulmi & Ophiostoma Ulmi.
The Day to Day Duties for a Tree Surgeon
- Fell and remove trees and grind stumps.
- Identify hazards posed by trees.
- Cut and chip branches and logs.
- Evaluate tree health and treatment.
- Be competent using power tools and other powered machinery.
- Deal with clients and complete admin tasks.
- Clean up site upon completion and fulfil removal of waste product from customer's site.
- Prepare tree survey reports for commercial and domestic customers.
- Maintain and service equipment like chainsaws and chippers.
- Produce on-site or telephone quotations for customers.
- Climb trees to prune or remove branches as required.
- Tree planting and transplanting.
Leylandii Hedge Removal
The fast-growing Leylandii hedge is a popular choice for Axminster homeowners looking for privacy. However, they can rapidly become overgrown and burdensome to maintain. Removing a Leylandii hedge requires careful consideration of several essential aspects. The foremost factor to take into account is to ensure that the hedge isn't subject to any legal protections, including a Tree Preservation Order. In the event that the hedge is safeguarded, you will require permission from the local council before proceeding with its removal. Additionally, Leylandii hedges can possess extensive root systems, which underscores the need to employ a certified tree surgeon to safely remove both the hedge and its roots. Finally, once the hedge is removed, you'll need to dispose of the waste responsibly. To sum up, removing a Leylandii hedge can be a hazardous and lengthy process, requiring the implementation of adequate safety precautions and possibly consulting with an expert.
Storm Damage Prevention Axminster
Of all the living things in our gardens, trees appear to be the strongest, sturdiest and the most able to stand up to the vagaries of Mother Nature. Certain tree species can survive and thrive without any issues for many hundreds of years, in particular oaks, yews and sweet chestnuts.
Even so, they can be extremely vulnerable to the elements when facing a certain set of conditions, and it isn't only the possibility of falling branches and limbs, but in times of severe weather the whole tree can topple over. The principal danger to, and enemy of trees, is high winds, and with the ever increasing frequency of violent storms and extreme weather events this kind of damage is becoming more and more commonplace in Axminster. Saturated soil during floods or extended periods of rain can be another issue, as can heavy snow.
To prune and remove any dead or excessively long branches that may cause an issue in severe weather conditions, it is advisable to get a professional Axminster tree surgeon to check out your trees regularly.
It's also important to fit larger trees with lightning rods, copper conductors, or other lightning protection systems, to prevent them being struck by lightning, and to protect nearby property and buildings which might be vulnerable to side-flashes ("arcs"). A tree that's struck by lightning can be severely weakened or even killed, a weakened tree can be left susceptible to disease, pests or decay. Lightning occurs more frequently than you may believe, and there are around 300 thousand strikes each year in the UK.
If you're worried about the chance of storm damage to your trees in Axminster, you should ask what your local tree surgery firm can do to protect them, and reduce the risk of accidents occurring. (Tags: Storm Damage Prevention Axminster, Storm Damage Axminster, Storm Damaged Trees Axminster).
Woodland Clearance Axminster
Woodland clearance in the Axminster area is a sophisticated process that can be influenced by a number of restrictions and regulations. An experienced tree surgeon in Axminster will provide you with a comprehensive service that will comply with all covenants and laws on the land, and will also clear the area in an eco-friendly manner.
A tree surgeon will verify if there are any special planning permissions, felling restrictions or ecological constraints by carrying out a full habitat survey and liaising with local authorities. It may be that the land in question has protected species of plant or wildlife on it, that will require relocation to another site that is protected, or other mitigation procedures to be employed.
It will be much more economical to bring in an accredited Axminster tree surgeon to undertake your clearance project, given that the mulching, felling and chipping equipment that is needed is extremely expensive.
Tree Surgery Tasks Axminster
Axminster tree surgeons can generally help you with cable bracing Axminster, hedge laying, soil terravention, tree lightening protection, stump grinding, tree removal, vegetation management in Axminster, fruit tree pruning, woodland management, crown cleaning, coppicing, tree lopping, waste removal, arboriculture Axminster, tree pest control Axminster, tree cutting, crown reduction, root pruning, tree management Axminster, landscape clearing, formative pruning, tree reduction Axminster, site clearance, forestry management Axminster, dead wood removal Axminster, tree watering Axminster, shielding trees from grazing animals, woodland clearance Axminster, crown lifting, decompaction, tree topping, damaged tree removal, tree fertilising, hedge reduction, retrenchment pruning in Axminster and other tree surgeon services in Axminster, Devon. Listed are just an example of the duties that are performed by local tree surgeons. Axminster professionals will let you know their entire range of services.
More Axminster Trades: Of course, whenever you're having tree surgery done in Axminster, Devon, you'll probably be in need of other garden related services, and aside from a tree surgeon in Axminster, Devon, you might also need garden clearances in Axminster, block paving in Axminster, artifical grass in Axminster, garden shed installation in Axminster, gate fitters in Axminster, decking installers in Axminster, patio installers in Axminster, garden design and planning in Axminster, soil drainage services in Axminster, garden digging services in Axminster, hard landscaping in Axminster, local SKIP HIRE in Axminster, rubbish removal in Axminster, hedge clipping in Axminster, garden pond builders in Axminster, lawn mowing in Axminster, and other different Axminster tradespeople.
Tree Surgeons Near Axminster
Also find: Musbury tree surgeons, Membury tree surgeons, Colyton tree surgeons, Lyme Regis tree surgeons, Millbrook tree surgeons, Smallridge tree surgeons, Abbey Gate tree surgeons, Sector tree surgeons, Uplyme tree surgeons, Dalwood tree surgeons, Alston tree surgeons, Kilmington tree surgeons, Marshwood tree surgeons, Thorncombe tree surgeons, Weycroft tree surgeons, Wilmington tree surgeons, Shute tree surgeons, Churchill tree surgeons and more. All these towns and villages are catered for by local tree surgeons. Local homeowners can get tree surgery price quotes by clicking here.
(Sourced from tree surgeons Axminster text version four.)
More: Vegetation Management, Tree Inspections, Root Removal, Site Clearance, Shrub Maintenance, Woodland Management, Shrub Maintenance, Tree Care, Stump Treatment, Woodland Clearance, Woodland Management, Crown Reduction, Vegetation Management, Woodchipping, Tree Planning, Eco-Plugging, Shrub Maintenance, Woodland Clearances, Root Removal, Root Grinding, Crown Reduction, Hedge Reduction, Hedge Reduction, Air-Spading, Tree Pollarding, Tree Care, Tree Lopping, Tree Inspections, Tree Planning, Dead Wooding.
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