Arboricultural News

Putney Tree Surgeons in Richmond

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to clear a space in your garden or a professional involved in larger land clearing projects, understanding the right techniques and safety measures is crucial. Here, we’ll explore how Putney Tree Surgeons in Richmond approach this task, focusing on the essential safety precautions to keep in mind, particularly for those operating in and around Richmond.

 

Tree Felling in Richmond

Tree felling involves cutting down a tree in a controlled manner to prevent damage to property and injury to people. It’s a task that should not be taken lightly, requiring thorough planning, the right tools, and a clear understanding of the tree’s structure and the surrounding environment. Safety cannot be overstated when it comes to tree felling, so you can rely on professional standards on key safety measures with Putney Tree Surgeons. Before felling a tree, assess the area thoroughly. Look out for overhead lines, nearby structures, and other trees. Planning the direction of the fall is crucial to prevent damage and injury. Putney Tree Surgeons always conduct a comprehensive site assessment to determine the safest route for the tree to fall.

 

Cutting Techniques

Putney Tree Surgeons utilise precise cutting techniques to control the direction of the tree’s fall. The most common method involves making a notch cut on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall. This is followed by a felling cut on the opposite side, slightly above the bottom of the notch cut. For larger trees, a wedge may be used to prevent the tree from settling back onto the chainsaw. Tree felling is a serious undertaking that requires careful planning and strict adherence to safety protocols. By following the guidelines provided by professionals like Putney Tree Surgeons, you can ensure that the task is completed safely and effectively.

 

Why Choose a Local Professional for Your Tree Surgery in Hampton.

Tree surgery is more than just removing branches or cutting down trees. It involves a comprehensive understanding of tree physiology, years of training, and precise equipment. Thus, it’s a task best left to professionals. But why should you prioritize a local professional for your tree surgery needs?

 

Expert Knowledge and Experience

Local professionals have an in-depth understanding of the local flora, weather conditions, and associated tree diseases. This allows them to provide a customized approach to your tree care. Moreover, their years of experience mean they can efficiently diagnose and treat any tree-related issues, saving you both time and potential damage to your property.

 

Safety Assurance

Tree surgery can be dangerous, especially without the right skills, knowledge, and equipment. Professionals are trained to perform tree surgery tasks in the safest way possible. They adhere to industry safety standards, ensuring neither your property nor your family’s safety is compromised.

 

Cost-Effective Solution

Choosing a professional might seem costlier upfront, but in the long run, it can save you from expensive repair costs associated with DIY mistakes. Additionally, professionals are insured, meaning you won’t be liable for any injuries or damages incurred during the operation.

 

Prompt and Reliable Service

Local professionals can provide prompt and reliable service. In case of an emergency like storm damage, you can count on them to be on site quickly to mitigate the risks.

 

Environmental Stewardship

Local professionals will always prioritize the health of your trees and the surrounding environment. They can provide advice on how to maintain your trees in a way that benefits the local ecosystem.

 

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to undertake tree surgery tasks yourself or hire inexperienced individuals, the benefits of choosing a local professional far outweigh the risks. They offer expert knowledge, safety assurance, cost-effective solutions, prompt service, and a commitment to environmental stewardship. Therefore, entrust your Tree surgeons in Hampton to a local professional like Putney tree surgeons, to ensure the best care for your trees.

 

Tree Reductions in Hampton

Tree reduction for enthusiasts can take many forms, from simple tree surveys to complex tree felling and removals. Taking the time to assess a property’s trees is essential in order to make informed decisions about which ones should be removed or pruned. Tree surveys should be carried out by a qualified arborist who has the experience and training necessary to recognize potential hazards, such as branches that are too close to buildings or power lines, or diseased trees that could spread their illness to nearby specimens. Once an expert survey has been completed, it will be possible to determine which trees could benefit from some form of reduction.

 

Tree felling is the process of removing a tree by cutting it down at its base with specialized tools such as chainsaws and axes. This type of work should only be done by experienced professionals because there is a risk of property damage and injury if mistakes are made. Tree removal does not necessarily mean complete removal; some trees may simply require trimming or pruning, in which case a certified arborist can use their tools and expertise to safely reduce the size of a tree without completely cutting it out of the landscape.

 

No matter what approach is taken, proper safety gear should always be worn by anyone working on any type of tree reduction project. Protective eye wear, gloves, helmets, and thick clothing are all essential when using power tools and performing manual labour while working with live vegetation. Tree health is paramount when carrying out these types of projects, so proper care must be taken when considering any kind of reduction plan.

 

Many homeowners who wish to undertake their own tree reductions may find difficulty in accessing specialized equipment due to cost or availability constraints; however, there are still several ways in which they can safely prune their own trees without professional help – for example by hiring an arborist for guidance; taking extra precautions with respect to safety; or enlisting the help of friends who possess adequate knowledge on the subject matter. Tree reduction can also prove beneficial economically since dead wood and overgrown branches can reduce wind resistance while also allowing more sunlight access into gardens and yards – both results increasing energy savings in winter months due to exposed areas getting direct sunlight during daylight hours.

 

Tree reduction needn’t be feared – if approached sensibly and professionally it can yield significant benefits across a variety of spheres ranging from economic savings, improved aesthetics, enhanced safety considerations through reduced risk posed by unstable branches or root systems, as well as increased biodiversity (by encouraging flowers/animal habitats) within an area formerly occupied predominantly by single foliage specimens. With enough research and due diligence enthusiasts have plenty options available for achieving successful outcomes when undertaking tree-related projects within their own Gardens, if you need professional help in Putney or a Tree surgeon in Hampton, call us today.

 

The Benefits of Pollarding Trees on Your Property

Tree pollarding is a popular method of pruning tall trees to help them stay healthy and looking their best. Pollarding can also help prevent branches from becoming too heavy and damaging your property in the event of high winds or other extreme weather conditions. If you’re considering pollarding your trees, here are some tips that may help you decide when it’s time to do it.

 

Pollard Timing The best time to pollard a tree is in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. This ensures that the cuts won’t shock or damage the tree, as they will be made while the tree is dormant. It also gives the cuts plenty of time to heal and for new growth to emerge so your tree will look its best for summertime! Types of Trees Not all trees should be pollarded—some species just don’t respond well to this type of pruning, so it’s important to check with an expert before taking any action. Generally speaking, however, trees like elms, ash and limes are good candidates for pollarding, as are fruit-bearing species such as cherry and apple trees. Safety First Before you attempt to pollard a tall tree yourself, make sure you have all the right safety equipment on hand—including protective eyewear and gloves—and that you know how to use it properly. If you don’t feel comfortable climbing tall ladders or using power tools yourself, it may be better to hire a professional arborist who has experience with this type of work.

 

Conclusion: Tree pollarding can be an effective way to maintain the health and appearance of your property year-round. Before going ahead with this job, yourself though, make sure you have all the right safety gear, consider which types of trees can be safely pruned this way, and remember that late winter or early spring is typically the best time for this activity. By following these guidelines and taking all necessary precautions, you can ensure that your tree(s) will look their best come summertime, Call us for more advice and to book your

Tree surgeons in Hampton.

 

What Are Tree Lichens?

There are some non-parasitic organisms called Lichens, that live on the bark of trees. They can also appear on rocks and fences. Due to being non-parasitic, they do not harm what they grow on. However, quite often people blame them for the reason why their plants are dying, even though they are simply weakened naturally. Normally lichens like their homes to be damp, although they can grow elsewhere. Unfortunately if lichens grow on the ground (such as on paths and pavements) it can become slippery.

 

Lichens can not be removed with chemicals and taking it off the tree would likely cause more issues to the bark. However it can be helped by making sure the tree is pruned correctly and excess vegetation is removed. If the condition around the plant is good then it has a better chance of getting stronger. For instance, if the soil is in good condition, then the tree has a better chance of thriving. If the lichen has appeared on a hard surface, it can be removed with a wire brush or a surface cleaner. Call us for all tree services and forTree surgeons in Wandsworth.

 

Is The Tree Dead Or Dormant?

Although we are quickly approaching the summer, you may wonder how your trees will fare during the colder months. After all, at the moment trees are flourishing in bloom, green and healthy. It’s more difficult to know how they are during the winter, as this is when they tend to ‘sleep’ and become dormant. However, as they aren’t active, you may think that they have reached the end of their lifespan. There are a few things to look out for to ensure this isn’t the case.

 

For instance, if a tree is dormant you will still have buds appearing. On each branch there will be small buds on the end, waiting for the warmer months. Depending on the type of tree their colours will vary from dark red to green. However, if the tree has died or dying, then there won’t be any buds. If there are, the buds will be dry and fall off if touched. Another way to check is to test the bark. A healthy tree cambium will have moisture and a green coloured bark. If it isn’t doing well the bark will be dry and dull. If the tree is healthy then the bark should be new and regenerating, without cracks or excess fungi that can cause decay. Whatever the symptom, if you suspect the tree is dying or dead rather than dormant, then you should contact a professional like Putney Tree Surgeons who can confirm it for you and advise you on what to do next. Call for a free quote if you need a Tree Surgeon in Wandsworth or Hampton.

 

Fallen Trees in Storm Eunice: Should We Move Them?

Recently we’ve been getting storms which have ranged from moderate to severe, with Storm Eunice, causing many issues over the UK. One issue that is common during a storm is the destruction of trees and the area around them. Several trees have been reported as fallen during this time. If these trees have fallen on to train lines, roads or footpaths, then they need to be moved swiftly by professionals., so if you are in North and West London and require a Tree Surgeon in Hampton, call Putney Tree Surgeons for an immediate quote. However, if ta tree has fallen somewhere where they are not causing a threat, then they should be left alone. They should be left to rot and deteriorate naturally, as moving them could do more harm than good.

 

Did you know that a tree being moved if it doesn’t need to be, can compact the soil around it, stopping any natural regeneration and small creatures using the dead wood? It also means any fungi and moss can’t grow, which all together means it can affect the biodiversity of the area, which isn’t good for the environment.

 

The Benefits Of Using Mulch

In order for your garden to flourish, you don’t necessarily need mulch. However, it is highly beneficial for gardeners to use. For instance, mulch can help to lower the chance of weeds growing. For this to work though, mulch shouldn’t be as thinly spread. If you’re using smaller chips, then the layering depth should be one to two inches. This is double for mulch with bigger chips. Mulch can also give protection from the elements. The middle of spring would be the best time to put it down, as if it is done too early, the soil won’t be the right temperature. Mulch is also beneficial due to not needing to water as often. This is particularly good for areas that can have droughts. It helps particular types of soil to retain water (such as sandy soil) and reduces the risk of evaporation. If you are using it around newer plants, then make sure they have been watered properly first.

 

Mulch is also eco-friendly due to being a natural material that will eventually break down, therefore giving the soil nourishment. Mulch made from wood and bark can be useful for micro-organisms and worms. Micro-organisms are beneficial to plants due to their ability to keep the soil healthy and loose, which boosts air and water flow, therefore keeping root growth stimulated. Mulch needs to be kept on the top of the soil, so it doesn’t disturb the nitrogen within the soil (which can be a risk to plant growth). Call for more information and advice from your Tree surgeons in Westminster.

 

Mulch can also be used for aesthetic reasons, such as paths. It needs to be kept neat and defined. Overall, mulch has many beneficial uses and is a favourite for many gardeners.

 

Reasons For Tree and Branch Failure

Unfortunately, trees can develop issues and one in particular is failing branches or the tree itself. Sometimes it is obvious what the problem is, either damage from a vehicle or construction or even bad weather. You may find that fungi develops at the bottom of the tree or on the trunk, which means there may be a form of decay inside. There could be cracking and bulging and even lacerations which can show the decay. Unfortunately, if the tree is around 40% affected, then the tree could be dangerous and should be removed. Decay doesn’t necessarily mean the tree is completely in trouble though. If there is only a small amount and there aren’t any obvious dead areas on the tree or branches, then it may survive.

 

If the branch load grows beyond the weight capacity of the branch collar then there will be branch failure, resulting in cracking. Pruning the tips of the branches can help reduce this risk, due to lowering the stress of the structure. Sometimes you can tell there is branch failure just from looking, due to how the branches have formed. If they are joined together in a ‘V’ shape then it can retain bark, which can weaken the formation of the branches and get damaged.

 

Another reason for failure are canker spots, which is where the tree bark and cambium have stopped thriving. Unfortunately, as the tree ages, they won’t change, therefore the tree can become weaker. These can often appear after an accident with gardening or construction equipment, from where it has knocked the tree and created scarring. A professional should come and assess the tree, particularly if there are no obvious reasons why the tree is failing. For tree branch advice call your local tree Surgeon in Wandsworth for a free site visit and quotation.

 

When Should You Prune Trees?

If certain branches are taken away from a tree or shrubs, it is called pruning. By doing this at a certain time of the year, it means they will be kept in great condition.

 

Tree surgery is needed as soon as a branch is dying or unhealthy. However, if it just for cosmetic reasons, such as shrinking a plant that is too large or to revitalise an aged tree, then you should wait until late winter or the beginning of spring so there are less issues. Trees or shrubs that are dormant can be looked at by tree surgeons during this time, due to not being disturbed. Whilst they are dormant, any lacerations can recover before the winter rolls around again.

 

During the time a tree is dormant, it is easier to have it pruned. The foliage won’t be obstructing it and the branches will be easier to get to. However, pruning should happen before any sprouting appears. If pruning is done at the beginning of spring, sap can appear but this is not necessarily a worry. If there are any issues though, you should get the help of an expert. For a free tree survey from a qualified Tree Surgeon in Wandsworth call Putney Tree Surgeons.

 

Looking After Trees During Construction

Imagine if you were walking past a construction site and saw the consequences of lack of care around the area. You would see damage on the trunks from limbs being broken off, lesions inviting in pathogens and dug out soil discarded on top of healthy soil. There would be no fence protecting the trees from harm.
 

Any veteran trees should be particularly taken special care of, as it is a government policy, however any trees should have an ‘arboricultural impact assessment’ (AIA) to identify and see if they can be helped in anyway. An ‘arboricultural method statement’ (AMS) can then detail how they will be saved during any work.
 

Sometimes if a tree is under protection, planning permission will not be given, unless it is proven that the work is more beneficial. If this happens, then new native trees would have to be planted to make up for the loss.
 

If these rules are ignored then there will be an investigation. If any trees that should be protected are under threat, then the council could force the work to stop, or give court demands. If work was to continue, harm can develop and there is potential for root damage and soil compression. This is why fencing should be fitted, to create a safe area for the trees to thrive safely and construction workers to be instructed on the protection of trees. At the end of the day, taking care from the start will keeping things going smoothly for both the work and the environment around it. Call an Experienced Tree Surgeon in Hampton for more advice on this, call Putney tree surgeons.
 

When Should You Remove A Dangerous Tree?

In the arboricultural world, trees don’t have to be perfect. They can have imperfections that don’t cause any issues, as they are simply cosmetic. These small problems can be slight dead wood (where squirrels have taken away the bark), and fungal infections to the bark. These are common issues for otherwise healthy trees.

 

However knowing the difference between minor and major issues is important. If you’re worried about whether or not the tree is actually a danger, then you need to consider the symptoms.

 

For instance:
Damaged, or falling branches, with unhealthy leaves.
Lesions in the branches or trunk.
Elevated soil around the bottom of the tree.
Large portion of damaged bark.

 

The best thing to do is get a tree surgeon to have a look to confirm whether or not it is a serious problem. They will usually determine this by considering the environment the tree is in. If it’s overhanging a public place like a school it would be dangerous to leave it to get worse, but the safety of cutting and removing it also needs thinking about.

 

The weakness of the soil will be assessed, as roots could be visible, as well as infections that can cause the tree to become unstable. They will also consider if the trunk is too damaged to be structurally supportive. Once they have decided, a plan can be made depending on the urgency of the job and call us for all Tree Surgery in South West London.

 

Storm Ali Damage

With Storm Ali sweeping the country this September, the importance of proper tree maintenance has come to light.
 

Shocking footage of trees collapsing inches from people’s cars and the terrible news of the death of a man in Northern Ireland, has led to professional tree surgeons working around the clock on the clean-up committee.
 

Strong winds can have a deadly impact when combines with weak trees. The sight of trees falling across roads is not uncommon during storms in the UK, but they serve as a reminder that we should take better care of our horticulture.
The presence of a weak oak tree in high winds could lead to serious damage to you, your property or your belongings.
 

For a professional opinion about the maintenance of a tree on your property, get in touch with the Putney Tree Surgeons in Wandsworth today.

 

Endangered Trees

The Forestry Commission have presented a report which has found that 10% of the planet’s trees, that over 8000 species are now under threat of extinction.
 

There are 15 endangered tree species in Britain which are listed as a priority in the UK biodiversity action plan. Ten of these species are associated with rocky outcrops which are becoming rarer in Britain. Only 17 individual Leys Whitebeam trees remain in the wild, each clinging onto the steep limestone cliffs of the Brecon Beacons. Similarly, the Woolly Willow is only found in mountainous areas in-accessible to grazing animals.
 

To preserve our planets ecosystems, it is vital that we conserve our trees. Not only do they supply the oxygen we breathe, they also provide habitats for other creatures and food and medicine for millions of people around the world.
 

To get a free quotation or tree-management consultation, contact the Putney Tree Surgeons.

 

An ongoing Blight for trees

The Forestry Commission are asking tree surgeons and land owners to be aware the Sweet Chestnut blight was discovered in South East London last summer.

 

The blight is caused by a fungus Cryphonectria parasitica and causes the leaves to wilt and die and also cankers appear on the tree surface and this will ultimately kill the tree.

 

There is no risk to animals or people but if you suspect you Sweet Chestnut tree is affected get in touch with your local tree surgeon who will be able to confirm the disease and notify the Governments Animal and Plant Health Agency. Call today for a tree surgeon in Kingston, West London.

 

Countryside Stewardship Scheme

Now is the time to apply for funding under the 2017 Countryside Stewardship scheme if you are considering planting a new wood, or if you require assistance to manage your land.

 

George Eustice, the Farming Minister on announcing the details said: “The Countryside Stewardship scheme plays a crucial role in enhancing our environment – conserving and restoring habitats to help wildlife recover, creating woodlands to improve air quality and reduce flood risk, and improving our landscapes to increase productivity and resilience.”

 

The Government have stated their intention of creating 11 million new trees during the life of the current parliament, so the Woodland Creation grant is designed to promote the planting of new woodlands and to assist in the planning of the wood and the ongoing management and maintenance.

 

To apply for a Grant visit the Government website where the is more information. Putney Tree Care can assist with the care and maintenance of your woodland.
 

London Garden Bridge

The London Garden Bridge is an idea that was originally proposed by the actress Joanna Lumley to commemorate Diana, Princess of Wales. It has been designed by Thomas Heatherwick (Hon FRIBA), and is supported by 78% of London residents.
The idea is to construct a 366m long footbridge that is free to use and will cross the Thames between Temple underground on the North Bank to the South Bank side of the river. The footbridge will provide a safe way to cross the Thames away from the London traffic amid a beautiful array of trees and plants, providing a less stressful and calm experience for residents and tourists.

 

The London Garden Bridge concept is to provide pedestrians not only an additional means of crossing the river but to experience all the benefits of nature as they go about their daily commute.

 

There will be many areas throughout the bridge to stop and enjoy the surroundings. It is estimated that The bridge will have over 2,500 sq metres of garden, containing 270 trees and more than 100,000 perennials, grasses, ferns, annuals and bulbs. All the plants, shrubs and trees have been selected for their biodiversity and suitability for planting in this unusual environment and it is expected that the garden will bring a rich mixture of wildlife and horticulture directly to the centre of London. The planting will enhance the landscape and frame many of London’s iconic landmarks. The garden will be designed by a team of experienced Horticulturalists headed up by Dan Pearson, an award winning designer, who trained at the RHS Wisley and Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew.

 

The bridge construction allows for considerable soil depth. This will enable the trees and shrubs to fully establish themselves and thrive. Many experts and soil scientists have investigated the potential problems and requirements of the plants and they are confident the plants will flourish. If you are looking for a Tree Surgeon in Westminster call Putney Tree Surgeons today.
 

The bridge itself is to be constructed from engineered copper-nickel, chosen specifically for its unusual colour and to provide a contrast to the surrounding architecture.
 

It is estimated that the bridge will cost £175,000,000 to build and a further £2,000,000 to maintain annually. Over £145,000,000 has already been pledged and it has the support of the London Mayor and London Transport. it is hoped that construction will begin this year and completed in 2018.
 

Trees need care and attention too

Trees have many benefits, not just the ecosystem they provide for all the many bugs, insects and birds that will thrive because of them but also the pleasure they give just by giving them the space to grow.
 

A tree should not be treated like a shrub and care should be taken when pruning to ensure that no unnecessary damage is caused. If you have trees in your garden or on your property you have a responsibility to ensure they are safe and not likely to cause harm to others, and you are concerned about your trees health try calling the experienced tree surgeons in Wimbledon on 0800 121 7880.

 

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

A Tree Preservation Order is used to protect trees that are considered to benefit the local area. The Local Planning Authority normally is the body that manage the TPO. A Tree Preservation Order can be applied to a single tree or all trees within a stipulated area of woodland. TPO’s come into their own when the tree or trees are under threat.

 

Once a TPO has been established it is a criminal offence to ‘cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree protected by that order, or to cause or permit such actions, without the authority’s permission. Anyone found guilty of such an offence is liable. In serious cases the case may be dealt with in the Crown Court where an unlimited fine can be imposed.’ For more information there is a useful leaflet available from the www.gov.uk website ‘Protected trees: A guide to tree preservation procedures’. To book a tree surgeon in Richmond, Wimbledon or Kingston call us today.

 

How soon will the leaves arrive?

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh and Biomathematics & Statistics Scotland are predicting that the times in which different tree species come into leaf could be greatly changed within decades, due to rising carbon emissions affecting autumn temperatures. They have been studying 14 woodland species and noting how they have been affected by temperature using records held at the Met Office, dating back to 1772.

 

To aid their research a set of historic records compiled by a Norfolk family dating back to 1736 has provided valuable insights into the cycle of woodland plants found on the Marsham family’s estate. Robert Marsham and his descendants recorded the spring leafing and flowering times of woodland plants on their Norfolk Estate from 1736 until 1947. It is one of the longest running of its kind in the world.

 

The Research team found that while all species tend to leaf and flower sooner when springs are warmer, warm autumns lead to species that normally leaf early, such as birch trees, taking longer to come into leaf. Species that leaf later in the season — such as oak trees — appear not to be affected by temperatures in the previous autumn. Scientists predict that, within a few decades, oak will tend to come into leaf earlier than birch. The Research team concluded that these changes in the flowering and leafing of woodland trees and flowers could affect the long term survival of different species living in woodland communities. For advice on trees and pruning contact the expert tree surgeons in Westminster.
 

British Timber Experiences Steady Increases

As the yearly “Grown in Britain Week” passes for the second time, purchases of wood products sourced in England have experienced an increase of 7%. This growth demonstrates the campaign is confidently gaining traction since its birth in 2013. A large 60% increase has taken place regarding the area of British forests under management of this project. In the near future there will be 250,000 hectares of woodland licensed under the “Grown in Britain” scheme. This would account for over a million tonnes of wood flowing through the timber industry and before making its way into stores. Tree surgeons Wimbledon have been heavily involved with many of these operations.

 

The campaign has steadily continued to gain support from the larger industry brands such as B&Q, STIHL, Kingfisher Group, Travis Perkins and Crown Estate. The UK Contractors Group has even financed £26 billion towards the ongoing construction required.

 

During this year alone many advances have been made, this includes the following:

 

  • A new carbon scheme for British forests has been brought into place. As a result 100,000 trees have already been planted to offset carbon emissions.
  • Numerous projects for research have been initiated. The focus of many is to increase quality through preservative, thermal and chemical treatments of trees.
  • Education modules for schools have been generated. The target of which is to raise awareness of forests and woods and their importance to our future. Some children may grow into budding tree surgeons, but it is hoped that all will gain a valuable insight to the impact on our environment.

Kingfisher’s Chief Expectative, Sir Ian Cheshire has expressed the following statement:

 

“Many members of the public and businesses will be brought together through the Grown in Britain campaign. The retail and construction sectors of the forestry industry are working together to increase demand, but most importantly sustainability of the industry as a whole. Each Grown in Britain event will be highlighted by a number of events around the nation, at which the collective progress of the campaign will be lionised.”
 

How soon will autumn come this year?

The Forestry Commission has offered its own advice to monitor the first signs of autumn as people view the country’s woods and forests to see how the period of hot, dry weather earlier this summer could affect autumn foliage.

 

The National Arboretum in Gloucestershire, welcome around one third of its annual visitors during autumn, drawn in by the beautiful autumn colours in the tree collection.The Forest of Dean also attracts coach parties from across England to see the stunning native beech, oak and ash as they change colour.

 

As autumn approaches we expect to see the early signs of colour emerging, but as some of the country has seen very low temperatures over the last weekend and people may wonder if this will increase the chances of early autumn colour. However, the main influence on leaf colour change is day length and as the days shorten, low temperatures can increase intensity of leaf colour, but temperature won’t be the main factor in the initial colour change. The leaves that typically start to change colour first are some of the country’s native species such as the common spindle, wayfaring tree, dogwood and rowan.

 

Forestry Commission Alert

The Forestry Commission and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) are advising owners to extend their vigilance to ash trees planted up to 20 years ago as a part of work to develop further our understanding of the impact of the disease on ash of this age. Large quantities of ash were imported from parts of continental Europe where the disease had been present before 2007 and this could mean that the disease was present on a very small proportion of plants imported from the continent at least 10 years ago.

 

Action

Putney Tree surgeons are constantly on the lookout for the symptoms of this disease in young trees, but trees over six years old will have grown above head height, making it more difficult to identify the symptoms. It is possible to identify the disease in older trees as the crowns of infected trees can show evidence of dying back and have fewer leaves than those of healthy trees. We take identification and reporting of this disease very seriously and with vigilance will help stop any further spread.

 

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