Bracing
Bracing techniques can help a tree prevent the loss of a primary branch or stem and retain its natural habit. Generally using a stronger part of a tree to support a weaker branch or stem. This process is mainly used on larger trees, who would otherwise pose a too higher risk of failure and have to be taken down prematurely. This is a positive tree management technique making the tree safer and prolonging its life.
Deadwood Removal
Trees naturally shed deadwood and this can be a hazard. ‘Deadwooding’ is the practice of removing dead stems and branches within the canopy before they fall possibly causing damage to property or injury.
Localised Reduction
When a tree’s branches are causing a nuisance (tapping on the roof, pulling on the guttering, etc), excessively shading, or creating an obstruction. Reducing the length of branches in a localised area or areas of the tree can alleviate the problem without undertaking unnecessary processes and reducing the whole crown of the tree.
Pollarding
A very old traditional technique carried out mainly for fodder to feed livestock, or harvesting wood. Now it is more commonly used to keep certain tree species smaller than they would grow naturally. The tree branches are removed once the tree reaches a preferred height, and then pruned in a cycle usually every 3-5 years (the time frame is variable). Pollarding can also cause trees to live far longer than their single stemmed counterparts.