Harrow Tree Surgeons (HA1): You may feel you will never need the help of a tree specialist, however if you have sizeable trees on your property in Harrow, think again. If work ever needs doing on your trees, either for aesthetic or for safety motives, you'll have to call in an expert. You may be tempted to address the issue yourself, but this would be a bad move and you might even injure yourself and find yourself in hospital.
A wide range of situations are likely to turn up with trees, the most obvious being when a tree has been ravaged by the wind and is likely to crash onto a building or road. Emergency local tree surgeons are brought in to make it safe, and you'll have no doubt observed them during stormy weather. Nonetheless, tree surgeons are incredibly versatile and can be brought in for such things as examining trees for disease or damage so that such problems are resolved early doors, eliminating old tree stumps that are causing a nuisance, making tree maintenance or management plans to keep your trees in good shape and thinning or reducing trees to allow more light into the garden.
Before using any tree surgeon you should confirm that they're affiliated with the Arboricultural Association, which is the primary professional body for tree surgeons within the United Kingdom. It's also vital that they have the appropriate public liability insurance so that all mishaps and accidents are covered, and they should be willing to guide you through applications to the authorities for approval to do the anticipated tree work. A tree evaluation must be carried out before work begins to ensure that the trees are not subject to a Preservation Order or located inside a Conservation Area.
Safety is naturally the paramount worry when carrying out any form of tree work in Harrow, and your chosen tree surgeon has to be acquainted with all the correct safety measures. He will bring all the necessary equipment to safely work on your trees and make sure that they aren't in any way harmed throughout the process, nor is any injury done to your loved ones or your property while any work progresses.
The apparatus that tree surgeons use has gotten really elaborate in recent times, and the proper use of it gets the work done speedily and efficiently. A tree surgeon should however be experienced with the use of things like slackline kits, rigging ropes, rigging pulleys, chain saws, lowering pulleys, winches, wood shredders, stump grinding equipment, pole saws, axes, climbing ropes and harnesses.
The ethical disposal of tree waste is a moral responsibility for all tree surgeons, therefore you must confirm that your tradesman observes that principle. Professional tree surgeons will be happy to show you their waste carrier, dealer and broker licence, that allows them to dispose of waste materials properly. The safe and ethical removal and disposal of any waste which is a result of any work on your property ought to be included in your estimate, confirm this before work starts.
Harrow tree surgeons ply their trade throughout the town, however don't worry if you are living outside the town because the majority of them will be more than happy to travel the short distance to places like Harrow Weald, Greenhill, North Harrow, Kenton, West Harrow, Burnt Oak, Harrow on the Hill, Belmont, South Harrow, Roxeth, Rayners Lane, Wealdstone etc. Hence, this information will be useful for you whether you are trying to find a reputable tree surgeon in Harrow, or in the surrounding areas of Greater London or adjacent counties.
In addition to the climbing, pruning and cutting down of trees with the help of specialized tools and equipment, tree surgeons are also required to assist in the conservation and protection of trees. By the inspection and surveying of trees and woodland, they are able to spot possible safety threats. A vital part of their obligations is ensuring trees are healthy, disease-free and able to prosper and survive.
Tree surgery is available in Harrow and also in nearby places like: Belmont, Roxeth, Pinner, Sudbury, Burnt Oak, North Harrow, Kenton, West Harrow, Rayners Lane, Harrow Weald, Wealdstone, South Harrow, Greenhill, Preston, North Wembley, Harrow on the Hill, and in these postcodes HA1 1UP, HA1 1XH, HA1 1LF, HA1 1BY, HA1 1UH, HA1 1XU, HA1 1RU, HA1 1LG, HA1 1EP, and HA1 1QU. Local Harrow tree surgeons will likely have the postcode HA1 and the dialling code 020.
For this type of service it's definitely wise to employ an approved tree surgeon. Harrow residents can benefit from the knowledge and expertise that are the trademark of a fully trained professional.
Crown Thinning Harrow
If you want to enable more light throughout, to help reduce the wind resistance of the tree, to prevent the tree being uprooted when it is windy, to cut down the stress put on specific branches resulting from gravity, snow, ice, or wind or to lessen the weight of the crown, most of the small incidental branches that are growing inside the outer crown of a broad leafed (Rather than conifer) tree are trimmed in a procedure which is called crown thinning. The overall shape and size of the tree are not changed by this, and it's likely it will need to be carried out on a fairly regular basis, as more shoots sprout. Crown thinning isn't supposed to transform the overall size and form of the tree, but ought to create a uniform density of foliage surrounding evenly spaced limbs. (Tags: Crown Thin Harrow, Crown Thinning Harrow, Tree Crown Thinning Harrow)
Tree Removal Harrow
When a tree becomes unsafe, diseased, or simply too large for its surroundings, removing it can often be a necessary step. Trees play a vital role in our environment, yet there are occasions when they might endanger nearby properties or even individuals. Issues like overhanging branches, root damage, or the potential for a tree to fall can lead to the conclusion that removal is the safest course of action. Although it's a decision that shouldn't be made lightly, when the time comes, it can significantly enhance the safety and functionality of your outdoor space in Harrow, providing you with greater peace of mind.
You might think that the process of taking down a tree is straightforward, but that's not really the case, particularly for larger trees. It takes meticulous planning and suitable equipment to get it done safely and effectively. Professional tree surgeons possess the skills necessary to assess the situation and figure out the best method for removal while minimising any impact on the surrounding landscape. They will also take care of disposing of the tree, which means one less thing for you to worry about. If you're considering tackling this on your own, it can be quite risky, so hiring a professional is usually the best decision for larger or more complicated jobs.
Once a tree is removed, it opens the door to all sorts of possibilities for your garden. More light can encourage nearby plants to thrive, while the cleared space offers the opportunity to add something new, such as a patio, a driveway, or an eye-catching garden feature. Whether the removal was for safety concerns or to reimagine your outdoor layout, a thoughtfully executed tree removal can transform your Harrow garden into a more functional and enjoyable space for the future. (Tags: Tree Removal Harrow).
Chainsaws in Tree Surgery
Arguably the most common tool used by Harrow tree surgeons, the chainsaw, in unskilled hands, is also the most dangerous. Petrol chainsaws are the most preferred by professionals, thanks to their ease of use and portability, although mains versions can be purchased, as can rechargeable battery chainsaws which have grown more popular in some situations. Where large tree stems and thick limbs are involved, such substantial tree work calls for the use of the most robust petrol driven chainsaws.
Comprising a revolving chain armed with a set of razor-sharp teeth that is driven by a motor and cuts through the bark and wood, a chainsaw is essentially a fairly simple tool. For the various different operations that are required, there are different types of chainsaw, pole saws for long distance pruning and hard to reach branches, top-handled for working at height (and which can be operated with one hand if required) and rear-handled for working on the ground (must be used with two hands).
Although carrying a spinning blade while precariously balancing up a tree is not the safest job on the planet, it's pretty rare to find a tree surgeon in Harrow who does not use a chainsaw in his/her daily work. In order to become a member of the Arboricultural Association (AA), being fully trained in the maintenance and safe use of chainsaws is one of the main conditions.
For any person interested in purchasing a chainsaw in the UK, there are many brands and models available, however the most popular with professional tree surgeons are Makita, Husqvarna, Stihl and Hyundai.
Tree Care Accidents
As we've already mentioned, tree surgeons and tree care professionals in Harrow undertake work that can be pretty dangerous. Tree work involves a considerable risk of injuries to both operatives and those on the ground, therefore all possible safety measures should be taken when working on trees.
It would seem (as stated by the HSE (Health and Safety Executive)), that falls from trees, the use of chainsaws, and being struck by a falling branch or tree are responsible for the majority of fatal and serious injuries that are linked to tree work. The reality is that the risk of serious injury is greater in tree surgery work than it is for those involved in the construction sector.
The majority of accident claims, in relation to insurance, are for lifting injuries, slipping from ladders and being struck by objects (cranes, ropes, branches, grapple hooks, trees etc).
That is why choosing a seasoned Harrow tree surgeon is so important when you've got tree work that needs to be done. In the tree care industry, many accidents can be attributed to inexperienced workers attempting tasks that they're not fully trained in, or capable of. Consequently, using an experienced and trustworthy company that's been trading in the Harrow area for a good few years, is the most effective way to sidestep such problems.
Tree Surveys Harrow
There are a number of instances when tree surveys may be needed, land development and property extension being the most common. If you're clearing some land in Harrow which has trees growing on it, to prepare for the building of a new house or an extension to an existing property, you'll need to arrange a professional tree survey as outlined by the BS5837 British Standards. Tree surveys in Harrow should be conducted by a qualified tree surgeon or tree surveyor, and this applies whether the survey is being done on either a private or public property.
A correctly done tree survey will glean a wide range of information about all the trees within the area in question. For instance:
- The height of each tree.
- The branch spread to the East, South, West and North.
- The predicted lifespan of the trees.
- Recommendations for tree management.
- A tree reference number for each tree.
- The existence of any TPOs.
- The age of the trees (i.e. young, semi-mature, mature, over-mature and veteran).
- The diameter of each tree (measured 1.5m above the ground).
- The number of trees (those of over 75mm diameter 1.5m from the ground).
- The species of each tree (either common or scientific).
- The structural and physiological health of the trees.
If you are carrying out work on an existing property or home in Harrow, but aren't shifting the access points or service lines, or increasing the footprint of the property, you probably won't need to carry out a tree survey.
Invasive Tree Root Problems Harrow
When they're growing too near to your home in Harrow, some trees have exceptionally invasive roots, and can cause issues. Problems that can develop include damaged foundations, blocked drains and cracked patios. Very aggressive root systems are found in tree species like elms, willows, maples and sycamores.
If you are planning to grow any new trees on your property, it's a good idea to make sure they are positioned a good distance from your house, patios, your sewerage system and paths. You should speak to a tree surgeon in Harrow, to see what can be done, if pre-existing trees are growing too close to your dwelling and are causing some of these problems.
You definitely shouldn't try and fix this yourself by simply hacking off the problematic roots, as this could seriously threaten the health of the tree or even kill it in some cases. Understanding which roots can be cut back, and which roots should be left in place is the domain of the expert, and a seasoned Harrow tree surgeon will ensure the tree can still get adequate water and nutrients to survive successfully.
Because sewer pipes provide a consistent source of water and nutrients, tree and shrub roots quite often cause cracks in underground drains. Tiny tree roots can easily grow into a drainage system's joints, and once established grow into large root balls which can lead to joint failure and blockages. To get rid of the troublesome tree roots, professional root removal solutions will be provided by some Harrow tree surgeons, who'll use electro-mechanical equipment, manual rodding or high pressure water jetting. (Tags: Drain Root Removal Harrow, Tree Root Problems Harrow, Problem Tree Roots Harrow, Invasive Tree Roots Harrow).
Tree Transplanting Harrow
Digging up mature trees and transplanting them in a new location may seem challenging, however with heavy, modern lifting equipment and truck mounted tree spades, it's become a fairly straightforward endeavour. Mature trees can be replanted onto new properties to achieve an instant landscaping appearance, or overgrown woody areas could be thinned out without the need to stoop to tree felling.
Transplanting a tree in Harrow is less stressful on the roots and wellbeing of the tree in the winter and autumn, but it can still be conducted during the warmer summer months by soaking the soil comprehensively before lifting. Moving an adult tree will involve a mechanical tree spade digging down and encircling the root-ball, before raising the whole tree, undamaged, from the soil. The uplifted tree can then be transferred to its new home for transplanting, or held in temporary storage until it is ready to be replanted.
If you wish to move a tree from ground that's got a preservation order on it, a specialist tree moving company in Harrow can collaborate with relevant authorities to approve replanting in a suitable location. (Tags: Tree Moving Harrow, Tree Replanting Harrow, Tree Transplanting Harrow).
Ash Dieback
First reported in Great Britain in 2021, ash dieback is a chronic fungal disease that's expected to decimate about 80% of the current ash tree stock, in the next few years. Set to have huge repercussions for our beloved countryside, ash dieback is probably going to be just as catastrophic as the earlier outbreak of Dutch Elm Disease.
Ash dieback has a particularly devastating 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 levels of tolerance to it. Originally coming from eastern Asia where the native Chinese ash (Fraxinus chinensis) and Manchurian ash (Fraxinus mandshurica) are less seriously affected by it, the fungus which causes the disease is known as Hymenoscyphus fraxineus (H. fraxineus), and it kills the tree by blocking its vascular (water transport) systems.
Ash dieback has now spread to most regions of the United Kingdom, and is dispersed by minute spores that blow on the wind, which can travel for many miles, quickening the whole process.
Ash dieback is recognisable by symptoms such as:
- Dark brown lesions (often diamond shaped) form where limbs join the trunk, and the inner bark under the lesions looks brownish grey.
- Wilting leaves that turn black in colour and fall prematurely.
- New shoots and leaves which are dying during the growing season.
- Leaves that develop dark patches during the summertime.
- New growth appearing from previously dormant buds (epicormic growth).
Ash trees have the ability to fight the infection to a certain degree, but sooner or later succumb to continued attacks, year-after-year. There's presently no cure for ash dieback, and no apparent method for stopping it spreading.
If you suspect a tree in your local area is contaminated with ash dieback, or you are nervous about a tree on your property in Harrow, you should call in a local tree surgeon to affirm the diagnosis, and you can then report it to the "Tree Alert Service" provided by the Forestry Commission, although they're presently only interested to know about cases in previously unaffected areas.
Trees of the genus Fraxinus are affected.
Dutch Elm Disease
A fungal disease that has killed off many millions of precious elm trees throughout Britain over the last 50 years or more, Dutch Elm Disease (Ophiostoma novo-ulmi) is not quite the concern that it was at one time. Caused by the fungus Ophiostoma novo-ulmi which is spread by the elm bark beetle (especially the Scolytus genus), Dutch Elm Disease (DED) was imported into Britain accidentally in the Sixties from North America (Canada).
Through the movement of elm products such as crates, saplings, mulching bark, and logs with the bark on, it was quickly spread through Britain after its initial arrival. This horrible disease did not only affect elms in the United Kingdom, but also devastated tree stocks in continental Europe, North America and New Zealand. Whilst the origins of Dutch Elm Disease are unproven, the suspicions are that it first originated from Asia (possibly Japan).
The first signs of Dutch Elm Disease are:
- Affected shoots dying back from the tips.
- Clusters of yellow leaves that wilt and then fall.
- Dark streaks underneath the bark of twigs.
- Twigs turning into a "shepherd's crook".
It normally begins to show up in early summer.
Due to disease and the subsequent chopping down of infected, dead and dying trees, there are not many large elms remaining in the UK countryside, therefore the spread has slowed down and the elm bark beetle's favourite habitat largely removed. New saplings have also been propagated from elms that up to now have proved resistant.
You can get hold of your neighbourhood tree surgeon for guidance and advice, if you are suspicious you may have infected elm trees on your property in Harrow, or you can put in a request for a diagnosis from the Tree Health Diagnostic and Advisory Service (THDAS), for which you will be charged.
Eco-Plugging Stump Removal Harrow
If you have a large tree stump in your garden which needs to be removed, the conventional strategy that is used by most Harrow tree surgeons is stump grinding. However, nowadays there's a cheaper alternative to this approach in the shape of "eco-plugging". Eco-plugging is not just less costly, but it's also ideal for use in hard-to-reach locations which are inaccessible to stump grinding equipment.
A highly effective treatment for eliminating tree stumps, eco-plugging has no effect on the surrounding vegetation and trees. Eco-plugs can be used at any time of the year and in any weather, and they kill off the entire root system of a tree stump. Containing a form of crystalline glyphosate herbicide which is effective on a wide range of tree species, eco-plugs work in 95-100% of cases.
Cable Bracing Harrow
When a tree could be a threat to nearby passers-by or property, or if it's showing signs of damage or decay, the tree may be provided with extra support with a procedure known as tree cable bracing. This strategy is generally used on highly valued or older trees in Harrow, where the felling or removal of large unsafe sections must be avoided for reasons of aesthetics.
Fitting a cable bracing system might be an option to support the poor joints, weak limbs and V-shaped forks of a tree. By the installation of cables and rods most Harrow tree surgeons will be prepared to mitigate structural stresses and extend the life of old and valuable trees using various forms of bracing work.
Cable bracing has the objective of providing a flexible and shock-absorbing means of support that is non-invasive and doesn't cause further damage to the tree by drilling and bolting the branches. Before any cable bracing work can proceed, a risk risk assessment should be conducted to ensure the safety of the tree and encompassing areas. (Tags: Cable Bracing Techniques Harrow, Cable Bracing Trees Harrow, Tree Cable Bracing Harrow, Cable Bracing Harrow).
Leylandii Hedge Removal Harrow
Leylandii hedges are a popular choice for householders in Harrow due to their fast growth rate and ability to provide privacy. Nevertheless, they have the potential to outgrow their bounds and become laborious to upkeep. Before removing a Leylandii hedge, it is crucial to think about a few critical factors. The initial step is to make sure that the hedge is not covered by any legal designations or restrictions, such as a Tree Preservation Order. In such cases, you must seek approval from the local council before removing the hedge. Furthermore, Leylandii hedges may have sprawling root systems, emphasizing the need to employ a skilled tree surgeon to remove the hedge and its roots safely. Finally, once the hedge is removed, you'll need to dispose of the waste responsibly. In summary, removing a Leylandii hedge can be a perilous and time-intensive undertaking, necessitating the adoption of appropriate precautions and the possible enlistment of expert assistance.
Emergency Tree Work Harrow
Having to call out a tree surgeon for an emergency is not something which is liable to happen very frequently, however if you've got large trees in your Harrow garden, this might be a necessity sooner or later. Harrow tree surgeons expect to receive a huge spike in emergency calls when there are high winds and storms, which is why many offer a 24 hour service to cater for this eventuality. In stormy weather there is more chance of branches snapping off and falling, and even the possibility of a whole tree crashing down. Avoidance is certainly preferable to having to deal with the consequences, and common issues that can be caused by falling tree limbs and branches include splintered sheds, damaged fences, busted garden furniture and cracked greenhouses.
Obviously, the local council in Harrow will also frequently need to call out emergency tree surgeons, when sizeable branches fall onto public pathways, streets and railway lines.
There may be a need for "re-balancing" a tree, even after emergency tree work has been done, because due to the loss of some branches, there could be a weight distribution problem, which could be dangerous but also unsightly. For all these problems, you should get in touch with a local tree surgeon in Harrow who offers emergency tree care services, and they'll take care of this for you.
The ISA - International Society of Arboriculture
An international, non-profit organisation that is headquartered in Georgia, USA, the International Society of Arboriculture is normally referred to just as the ISA. Serving the tree care industry all over the world, the ISA is a membership association that promotes the professional practice of arboriculture, providing credentials for tree care professionals.
Promoting best tree care practices, and focused on research, education and technology, the ISA provides educational events, publications and services improve the arboricultural expertise, skills and knowledge of those who work in the tree care sector.
An agreement signed in mid-2016 between the Arboricultural Association and the International Society of Arboriculture, meant that the AA became an associate organisation of the ISA. Providing additional opportunities for ISA members in the United Kingdom and Ireland, this also strengthened the relationship between the two organisations. UK Arboricultural Association members are now able to benefit from being an integral part of a wide and varied global network of tree care professionals. Boasting over 22000 members globally the ISA now has professional affiliates and associate organisations in New Zealand, South Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and the United Kingdom.
Safety Considerations
One of the most important considerations with doing tree surgery in Harrow is the safety aspect, since it is a dangerous and risky procedure if handled incorrectly. Inexperienced or incapable "tree surgeons" in Harrow are apt to cut corners and just disregard accepted safety guidance, meaning that there might be not roping off the work area to protect vehicles and the public, not wearing eye or hearing protection, failure to put on cut resistant apparel (specifically trousers and safety boots), falling timber and branches, hardly any fall protection, in the shape of ropes, platforms and harnesses and inadequate head protection. What can be in danger because of such inadequacies are the actual tree itself, passing and parked vehicles, the street facilities, garden outbuildings and fencing, pedestrians, team members working on the ground, the people living in the property, nearby structures, the tree surgeon himself (up the tree).
Required Skills for Tree Surgeons in Harrow
- The ability to work well with others.
- Be professional and able to complete work within the given time frame.
- Have a good understanding of public safety and security.
- To be thorough and pay attention to detail.
- Have good customer service skills.
- To be able to perform common tasks on a hand-held device or computer.
- Be able to work well with your hands.
- Have the ability to use, maintain and repair tools and machinery.
- Patience and the ability to stay calm and focused in stressful circumstances.
- Physical skills like co-ordination and movement.
- Be aware of the complexities and dangers involved with the various areas of tree work.
Tree Surgery Tasks Harrow
Harrow tree surgeons can normally help with tree felling, crown removal, hedge lowering, tree planning, woodchipping, health inspections, tree cutting, landscaping Harrow, damage restoration in Harrow, stump grinding, site clearance, coppicing, safety inspections, tree lightening protection, tree watering, brush cutting, tree cabling, tree management in Harrow, tree replanting, commercial tree surgery, tree removal, woodland management, crown cleaning, formative pruning, root pruning, root grinding, decompaction Harrow, dead wood removal, tree pollarding, hazard assessment, forestry management Harrow, tree lopping, drop crotching in Harrow, cut sealing in Harrow, emergency tree surgery Harrow and other tree surgeon services in Harrow, Greater London. These are just a few of the activities that are handled by tree surgeons. Harrow providers will tell you about their whole range of services.
Tree Surgeons Near Harrow
Also find: North Wembley tree surgeons, Belmont tree surgeons, Rayners Lane tree surgeons, Harrow on the Hill tree surgeons, Preston tree surgeons, Burnt Oak tree surgeons, Kenton tree surgeons, Sudbury tree surgeons, South Harrow tree surgeons, West Harrow tree surgeons, Greenhill tree surgeons, Roxeth tree surgeons, North Harrow tree surgeons, Harrow Weald tree surgeons, Pinner tree surgeons, Wealdstone tree surgeons and more. All these towns and villages are serviced by tree surgeons. Local home and business owners can get price quotes by clicking here.
Tree Care Services Harrow
- Tree Surveys
- Tree Removal
- Wood Chipping
- Site Clearance
- Soil Terravention
- Crown Cleaning
- Tree Bracing
- Arboriculture
- Tree Lopping
- Stump Treatment
- Woodland Clearance
- Crown Thinning
- Tree Replanting
- Dead Wooding
More Harrow Trades: Of course, whenever you are having tree surgery done in Harrow, Greater London, you will probably need other garden related services, and together with a tree surgeon in Harrow, Greater London, you may also need gate fitters in Harrow, grass cutting in Harrow, patio layers in Harrow, pond installers in Harrow, garden design and planning in Harrow, soil drainage services in Harrow, artificial grass installation in Harrow, garden rubbish removal in Harrow, garden clearance in Harrow, garden shed installers in Harrow, planting services in Harrow, hedge shaping in Harrow, hard landscaping in Harrow, driveways in Harrow, decking installers in Harrow, local SKIP HIRE in Harrow, and other different Harrow tradespeople.
To find out local info about Harrow, Greater London check here
More: Hedge Planting, Site Clearance, Tree Bracing, Root Grinding, Tree Cutting, Tree Pruning, Tree Inspections, Root Grinding, Root Removal, Soil Terraventing, Tree Dismantling, Crown Reduction, Air-Spading, Woodland Management, Stump Removal, Site Clearance, Tree Removal, Shrub Maintenance, Crown Raising, Tree Reduction, Tree Pruning, Dead Wooding, Tree Maintenance, Root Removal, Wood Chipping, Woodland Management, Hedge Reduction, Tree Watering, Air-Spading, Tree Transplanting.
Tree Surgeon Jobs Harrow: Find Harrow tree surgeon jobs here: Harrow Tree Surgeon Jobs
Tree Surgery HA1 area, (dialling code 020).
Tree Management Harrow - Forest Management Harrow - Tree Surgeon Harrow - Tree Surgeons Near Me - Crown Lifting Harrow - Tree Surgeons Harrow - Stump Removal Harrow - Tree Felling Harrow - Tree Care Harrow