Crown reduction is one of the most common tree surgery tasks requested by homeowners, but it is also one of the most misunderstood. When done properly, it reduces the overall size of a tree while maintaining its natural shape and long-term health. When done incorrectly, it can cause stress, damage, and even shorten the tree’s lifespan.
At EM Tree Surgery Tewkesbury, we have seen the difference between professional and DIY crown reductions many times. Here’s what we discovered when a homeowner attempted their own crown reduction before calling us in to fix the damage.
The DIY Attempt
The homeowner’s goal was simple — allow more sunlight into their garden and reduce the risk of overhanging branches during storms. They rented a chainsaw, grabbed a ladder, and began cutting back the branches they thought were unnecessary.
Unfortunately, they faced several challenges:
- Uneven Cuts: Some branches were cut too short, while others were left untouched, leaving the tree lopsided.
- Stub Cuts: Many branches were cut in the wrong place, creating “stubs” that failed to heal correctly.
- Over-Reduction: Too much foliage was removed at once, causing stress to the tree and leaving it vulnerable to pests and disease.
- Safety Risks: Working at height with no harness or professional equipment created a dangerous situation.
The Aftermath
Within weeks, the tree began to respond poorly. New shoots started sprouting rapidly, a common sign of stress. These shoots were weakly attached and likely to break off in high winds. The tree also looked unnatural and patchy, affecting the appearance of the garden.
Most importantly, the cuts left open wounds that provided easy access for decay and infection. What began as an attempt to make the tree safer actually created a greater risk of branch failure in the future.
The Professional Solution
When EM Tree Surgery Tewkesbury stepped in, we carried out a proper assessment and recommended a staged crown reduction to allow the tree to recover. Our trained arborists:
- Used precise cuts to remove weight without harming the tree’s structure
- Balanced the canopy to restore symmetry and allow light through evenly
- Applied techniques to encourage healthy regrowth
- Cleaned up all debris, leaving the garden safe and tidy
Lessons Learned
DIY crown reduction may seem like a quick way to save time, but it can create more problems than it solves. Professional tree surgeons have the training, equipment, and understanding of tree biology needed to:
- Maintain tree health
- Prevent long-term damage
- Ensure work is carried out safely and efficiently
Conclusion
Attempting a crown reduction without expert knowledge can lead to structural damage, safety hazards, and costly corrective work. If you want to reduce the size of your tree safely while preserving its natural beauty, trust the experts at EM Tree Surgery Tewkesbury to get it right the first time.
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