Tree Surgeons Ashford

Who you gonna call? A tree surgeon! - Playing an essential role in the maintenance and general care of trees, tree surgeons offer services to both residential and commercial customers in the Ashford area. The number of services that a qualified tree surgeon in Ashford can provide is limitless, but includes: the safe planting of trees, tree felling, hazard assessments and inspections, the pruning of intrusive, weak or dead branches, along with general tree maintenance.

However, a tree surgeon's work certainly doesn't stop with trees alone. A tree surgeon in Ashford will take on further responsibilities, such as stump removal, hedge trimming, care and maintenance. If you have a tree on your property in Ashford, and have got concerns about its structural integrity, a tree surgeon is the best person to get in touch with, as they will be in a position to inspect your tree, give you a report on potential hazards, and give suggestions about what to do next.

Any sensible person in Ashford would understand that tree surgery is a decidedly hazardous occupation, and that it should not be attempted by anybody who's not properly trained. It would not be a sensible decision to bypass and take the DIY approach, even though this may seem to be an attractive solution. To carry out the work they do, tree surgeons have to be experienced, physically fit and qualified.

Usually, tree surgery involves using dangerous power tools whilst harnessed to the tree and high up in the air. Novices beware - this is certainly not a task for you! Tree surgery is also normally performed by a team of seasoned tree surgeons, including a ground crew and climbers, who are all experts in their field. It would be pretty much impossible for any untrained individual to compete with this level of experience, competence and risk assessment to undertake the work.

On resolving that you require the expert help of a tree surgeon in Ashford, the initial step is to locate a really good one that you can trust to do a fine job. But, how should you do this? Well, you will need to check out a few things, like cost, qualifications and experience. Next we will cover a few of the things you should look for when employing a tree surgeon in Ashford.

For starters, you will want to check they've got the appropriate qualifications to dispel any doubts that they are competent and properly trained. The main governing body issuing certifications to tree surgeons is the NPTC (National Proficiency Tests Council). Any Ashford tree surgeon should have the following qualifications as a minimum requirement:

• NPTC 308 (CS39) - Chainsaw use from rope and harness.
• NPTC 201/202 (CS30) - Chainsaw maintenance & cross-cutting.
• NPTC 203 (CS31) - Fell and process small trees up to 380mm (15") diameter.
• NPTC 206/306 (CS38) - Climb a tree and carry out aerial rescue.

As holding such certifications signifies that they've received the correct training, it is well worth tracking down a tree surgeon who has them, although this is not currently a legal obligation. Gaining these qualifications should give you reassurance that the task will be completed successfully and safely. Due to the risks of falling from height and catastrophic bleeding, forestry workers, arborists and tree surgeons should also carry a comprehensive First Aid kit and have some basic First Aid training.

The next step is to obtain 3 or 4 price quotes from different Ashford tree surgeons, and meticulously check their breakdown of costs, and what work is included. One thing to keep an eye out for is if the quote covers the the disposal of the vast amount of waste often produced by tree maintenance and surgery, sometimes it doesn't! The process of removing this waste can be very inconvenient and costly for the customer, consequently if it's possible to have the tree surgeons remove this themselves, it would definitely be much better.

Also, be prepared to ask potential Ashford tree surgeons lots of important questions when you come face to face with them. For example, you need to understand who will be coming onto your property and who is going to be doing the work. Is it going to involve just one person or a team of workers? Is there any possibility of you meeting them beforehand? What's the timescale for the work? Is there going to be any impact of my home or next door neighbours? What methods of tree removal or surgery will be used?

If you ask all the appropriate questions, you will be less likely to get any unpleasant shocks down the line.

You should also listen carefully to the things your tree surgeon says. This can be a great tool for assessing their levels of professionalism and expertise prior to starting the work. If someone is talking about 'lopping and topping', this is often associated with the more old-fashioned workers, who might not be up to date with modern technologies and techniques. Terminology such as 'crown lifting', 'pruning', 'crown thinning', 'crown reduction' and 'dead wooding', will be used by an experienced, professional and fully trained tree surgeon in Ashford. While this might not always be an indicator of ability, it is often a useful clue as to the level of expertise held by your tree surgeon.

In the final analysis, with regards to tree maintenance or tree surgery, it is always worth the effort of contacting a number of tree surgeons in Ashford. If you find the best one, you can rely on having a professionally undertaken job, accounting for all possible hazards and making sure that all of your requirements are fully met in a safe and timely manner.

Cable Bracing Ashford

When a tree presents a threat to nearby pedestrians or property, or if it's showing the warning signs of damage or decay, the tree may be supported using a method known as cable bracing. This strategy is generally used on older or valuable trees in Ashford, where the felling or removal of large unstable sections is undesirable for aesthetic reasons.

A cable bracing system can be installed for adding support to defective joints, weak limbs and V-shaped forks. To help alleviate structural stresses and extend the life of old and valued trees most Ashford tree surgeons will be able to carry out different types of bracing work by the installation of rods and cables.

A non-invasive technique, that does not cause damage to the tree by drilling and bolting the problematic branches, cable bracing provides shock-absorbing and flexible support. Before any actual cable bracing work can begin, a comprehensive risk risk assessment should be carried out to guarantee the safety of the tree and surrounding areas.

Skills and Knowledge Necessary for a Tree Surgeon in Ashford

• Have a methodical way of working.
• Have good customer service skills.
• Physical skills such as movement and co-ordination.
• Patience and the ability to stay calm in times of stress.
• Be able to work well with your hands.
• Be capable of repairing, maintaining and using tools and equipment.
• Have a good understanding of public safety and security.
• The cabability to work well with other people.
• Have essential computer skills and know how to complete tasks on handheld devices.
• Be professional and able to complete work within the specified time frame.
• Be alert to the complexities and dangers involved with the various areas of work.

Tree Transplanting Ashford

Transplanting fully-grown trees is an intricate, but rather simple process these days, mostly due to advanced truck mounted tree spades, tree lifting devices and other specialist tools. An experienced tree removal company in Ashford will be happy to move any trees that you have on your property, or transplant fully developed trees for an instant aesthetic appeal.

Moving a tree in Ashford causes less stress to the roots and health of the tree in the winter and autumn, but it can still be done in warmer summer months by soaking the ground comprehensively before lifting. To lift a tree from the soil a tractor mounted tree spade is pushed down into the dirt to encompass the tree's root ball, before hauling the whole tree free. The uplifted tree can then be replanted or stored temporarily before its re-planting in a new location.

Even protected trees can be lifted and transplanted by a certified tree moving contractor in Ashford, provided that all relevant preservation orders and authorisations are given by the woodland organisations and authorities. It should be possible to find transplanting services in Wye, Bilting, Shadoxhurst, Challock, Willesborough, Kennington, Smeeth, Great Chart, Westwell, Brook, Boughton Lees, Hinxhill, Little Chart, Mersham, Hothfield, Beaver Green, and Ashford, Kent..

Leylandii Hedge Removal Ashford

Leylandii hedges are a favoured option among Ashford homeowners who seek rapid growth and privacy. Nonetheless, they have the tendency to grow out of control and become hard to keep in check. Before removing a Leylandii hedge, it is crucial to think about a few critical factors. Initially, it's essential to make sure that the hedge is not covered by any legal protections, including a Tree Preservation Order. When the hedge is under legal protection, you must seek the local council's authorization before you can remove it. Furthermore, Leylandii hedges can have complex root networks, underscoring the importance of employing a skilled tree surgeon to safely remove the hedge and its roots. After the hedge is removed, it's important to dispose of the waste in a way that is environmentally sound and responsible. 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.

Wood Chipping Ashford

So as to process the large quantities of tree limbs, vegetation and branches that result from their work, most Ashford tree surgeons will utilise wood chipping devices. Although it largely depends on what equipment is being used, these impressive wood chipping systems can gobble up as much as forty tons of material per hour, and even the smaller, more frequently used machines can process around five tonnes each hour, or basically as much as you are able to feed into them.

Chipping down the tree branches in this way makes them easier to transport and also produces a useful material that can be used for a number of things including, landscaping, biomass fuel, weed prevention, mushroom cultivation, garden walkways, mulching gardens, ecosystem restoration and wood pulp.

If you decide that you would like to keep some of the wood chips that result from your tree surgery project, most Ashford tree surgeons will gladly let you keep them. If you've got no use for them, they'll take them away for use on other assignments, or appropriately dispose of them. Tree surgeons are a good source for wood chips that you can use for various purposes throughout your garden, even if you don't require any tree surgery doing on your property in Ashford. Wood chips are sometimes available from tree surgeons free of charge, although if you need to have them delivered there will probably be a modest fee.

Well known makes of wood chipping equipment include T-Mech, Timberwolf, Forest Master and Crytec. (Tags: Wood Chipping Ashford, Wood Chips Ashford, Wood Chipping Services Ashford, Wood Chipping Machines Ashford).

Tree Care Accidents

The work undertaken by tree surgeons in Ashford can be rather hazardous. All reasonable safety measures must be implemented when carrying out work on trees, because tree work involves a high risk of injury to both operatives, co-workers and passers-by.

The majority of major and fatal injuries are linked to the use of chainsaws, falls from trees, and being hit by a falling tree or branch, as reported by the HSE (Health & Safety Executive). The reality is that people that are involved in tree care work are more at risk of sustaining a serious injury than those working in the construction sector.

The majority of accident claims, when it comes to insurance, are for being struck by objects (ropes, grapple hooks, branches, trees, cranes etc), falling from ladders and lifting injuries.

This should all help you appreciate why it's so important to hire a competent tree surgeon in Ashford. Many accidents that happen in the tree care industry are down to unskilled workers attempting tasks that they're not fully trained in. So, always try to use an established and reputable company that has been operating in the Ashford area for a good few years, to avoid this issue.

Eco-Plugging Tree Stumps Ashford

The traditional method that is used for removing stumps by most tree surgeons in Ashford is stump grinding. However, nowadays there's a less expensive alternative to this method in the shape of "eco-plugging". Eco-plugging is not only less costly, but it is also handy for use in hard-to-reach locations where there could be stump grinding accessibility issues.

Without affecting the surrounding trees and vegetation, eco-plugging is an extremely effective treatment for killing tree stumps. Eco-plugs kill off the entire root system of a tree stump and can be used at any time of the year and in any weather conditions. Effective for treating a wide selection of tree species, eco-plugs are 95-100 percent effective and contain a type of crystalline glyphosate herbicide.

Problematic Tree Roots Ashford

When they are growing too near to your home in Ashford, certain trees have exceptionally invasive roots, and can be troublesome. Among the most commonplace problems are: cracked patios, damaged foundations and blocked drains. Some of the species of trees that have extremely aggressive root systems include elms, willows, sycamores and maples.

If you are planting any new trees, make sure that they're located far enough away from your drainage system, your house, patio areas and pathways, so they won't cause serious problems in the future. If pre-existing trees are growing too close to your house and are causing some of these problems, you should get in touch with a tree surgeon in Ashford, to see what can be done.

If you wish to avoid killing off the tree or severely harming it's health you shouldn't try and do this yourself and just chop off any invasive tree roots. So that the damage is reduced, and the tree can still get enough water and food to survive and thrive, a skilled tree care specialist in Ashford will know precisely which roots should be left, and which roots can be cut back.

Since sewerage pipes provide a constant source of moisture and nutrients, tree and shrub roots often cause structural issues in subterranean drains. Joint failure and blockages can arise when a drainage system's joints are penetrated by minute tree roots, which can eventually grow into massive root balls when they're established. Professional root removal solutions will be provided by many local tree surgeons, who will employ electro-mechanical equipment, manual rod clearance or high pressure water jetting to get rid of the troublesome roots. Root removal services are also available in Wye, Bilting, Shadoxhurst, Challock, Willesborough, Kennington, Smeeth, Great Chart, Westwell, Brook, Boughton Lees, Hinxhill, Little Chart, Mersham, Hothfield, Beaver Green, and and of course in Ashford. (Tags: Drain Root Removal Ashford, Tree Root Problems Ashford, Problematic Tree Roots Ashford, Invasive Tree Roots Ashford).

Ash Dieback (Hymenoscyphus Fraxineus)

Most likely to wipe out about 80 percent of the current UK ash tree population, over the next few years, ash dieback is a highly infectious fungal disease of ash trees, the first case of which was documented in the UK in 2012. Ash dieback is almost certain to have huge repercussions for our countryside, exacerbating the devastation caused by the Dutch Elm Disease epidemic.

A damaging disease of trees of the Fraxinus genus, ash dieback has an especially devastating effect on the Fraxinus excelsior (common ash), British Fraxinus excelsior (common ash). Originally coming from Asia where the native Manchurian ash (Fraxinus mandshurica) and Chinese ash (Fraxinus chinensis) are less seriously affected by it, the fungus which causes the disease is called Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, and it kills off a tree by obstructing its vascular systems.

Swiftly spread by minute spores produced by the fruiting bodies of the fungus, and are able to travel on the wind for many miles, ash dieback (or chalara ash dieback) can be found in most parts of Great Britain with up to 85 percent mortality rates.

Killing tree of all ages, ash dieback can be recognised by symptoms such as:

• Leaves with dark patches that develop during mid to late summer.
• New epicormic growth appearing from previously dormant buds (common in stressed trees).
• Dark brown necrotic lesions form where limbs meet with the trunk.
• Leaves that wilt, turn black and fall prematurely.
• Dying shoots and leaves that are visible during the summertime.

Some ash trees have a tendency to fight off initial infections of the disease, but as it returns every year, they eventually succumb. Because it's an airborne disease there's no apparent procedure for stopping its spread, and no recognised cure for chalara ash dieback.

Whilst you can report instances of ash dieback to the "Tree Alert Service" provided by the Forestry Commission, it is now so widespread throughout the United Kingdom that they are only really interested in cases which are found in areas not previously affected. If you suspect that you have a case of ash dieback in your garden in Ashford, you must speak to a local tree surgeon, who will offer guidance and advice about how best to proceed - ultimately the tree or trees will have to be downed and removed.

Trees affected - the genus Fraxinus.

Coming Soon:

Stump grinding machines - article 246.

Tree Surgery Tasks Ashford

Ashford tree surgeons can usually help with tree work, forestry management Ashford, monitoring of tree health, pollarding in Ashford, root pruning in Ashford, tree felling, staking, shielding trees from grazing animals, tree topping, drop crotching, crown cleaning, tree cutting Ashford, woodland clearance, airspading, residential tree care, crown lifting, tree shaping, tree management, formative pruning, hedge trimming, waste removal, arboriculture, tree dismantling, fruit tree pruning, coppicing, tree pest management, retrenchment pruning, dead wood removal, root flare exposure, tree care, tree reduction in Ashford, eco plug treatments in Ashford, felling of storm damaged trees in Ashford, commercial tree surgery, damaged tree cutting and removal and other tree surgeon services in Ashford, Kent. These are just an example of the activities that are handled by tree surgeons. Ashford providers will be happy to tell you about their entire range of services.

Tree Surgeons Near Ashford: Also find: Challock tree surgeons, Beaver Green tree surgeons, Hinxhill tree surgeons, Westwell tree surgeons, Great Chart tree surgeons, Kennington tree surgeons, Willesborough tree surgeons, Mersham tree surgeons, Shadoxhurst tree surgeons, Boughton Lees tree surgeons, Wye tree surgeons, Bilting tree surgeons, Smeeth tree surgeons, Brook tree surgeons, Hothfield tree surgeons, Little Chart tree surgery and more. All these villages and towns are served by tree surgeons. Ashford home and business owners and others can obtain tree surgery estimates by clicking here.

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Tree Management Ashford - Crown Reduction Ashford - Tree Surgeons Ashford - Tree Reshaping Ashford - Tree Surgery Ashford - Tree Surgeon Ashford - Vegetation Management Kent - Woodland Management Ashford - Tree Felling Ashford