Glossary of Tree Service commonly used terms.

Simply put, a broader name for a Tree Surgeon. An Arborist is a specialist in the care and cultivation of trees and shrubs. The treatment and control of pests and tree related diseases are all in a days work for a skilled arborist

The term dates back to 1570s and is derived from the Latin word “arbor” meaning “tree”. The word probably came to use in English from the French “arboriste”.

Coppicing is a traditional practice used by Arborists, usually applied to species such as Sweet Chestnut and Hazel, to provide stakes and fencing etc.. It involves a tree regularly being cut down to a height of approx.12″ (300mm). 

The crown refers to the part of a tree that carries the foliage.  It is formed by the branches and doesn’t techically include any clear stem or trunk.  Crowns can be reduced or altered as needed.

Deadwood is the term used for any parts of a tree that are non-living.  The can occur due to external influences such as fire or disease or natural ageing.  Correct management of deadwood should aim to leave as much as possible in place. The shortening or removal of deadwood should only be applied where there is a risk. This is because deadwood provides an essential habitat for many creatures.

Felling basically means cutting a tree down. This is done for a variety of different reasons and can be done in a number of different ways. A controlled fell refers to cutting the tree down at ground level in such a fashion that it lands in a safe and expected area. Sectional Felling using heavy duty ropes, pulleys and specialist equipment to fell the tree in parts. These are then lowered to the ground.

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Lopping means removing large side branches of a tree.  This terminology is sometimes used in a derogotory fashion to describe crude techniques.  Topping refers to removal of a large portion of the crown.

This means removing the top of a young tree at a particular height.  This is done to encourage multistem branching.  Traditionally this was done to provide firewood, fodder and poles.  It can be repeated on a regular basis ‘bolling’ at the original pollard point.

Crown reduction means the removal of some of the branches that makes up the crown of the tree. This could be needed for a number of reasons such as letting more light through the tree. A crown reduction may refer to a reduction in the height of the crown. Reduction is not suitable for all types of tree.

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Root pruning is the chopping back of tree or shrub roots, usually to protect property.  It is essential that this technique is carried out by a professional as it can affect the stability of a tree.