TREE
SURGERY
Looking for a professional tree surgeon in Bristol?
Cambium Tree Care Ltd provides a full range of tree surgery services across Bristol and the surrounding areas. With over 15 years of industry experience, our fully qualified team carries out careful, considered tree work designed to maintain both the safety and long-term health of your trees.
We provide clear advice on the most appropriate course of action and the best time of year to carry out pruning, ensuring all work is completed in accordance with BS3998 tree work recommendations.
Our Tree Surgery Services
We offer a comprehensive range of pruning and management services, including:
- Crown thinning
- Crown raising (crown lifting)
- Crown reduction
- Formative pruning
- Pollarding
- Deadwooding
- Cable bracing
Each service is tailored to the species, condition and setting of the tree.
CROWN Thinning
Crown thinning is the selective removal of smaller branches throughout the canopy to reduce overall density while maintaining the tree’s natural shape.
The majority of thinning is typically carried out in the outer crown. A professional tree surgeon ensures the reduction is evenly distributed and avoids “lion-tailing” — the removal of inner growth that leaves long, overextended limbs with foliage concentrated at the tips.
The benefits of crown thinning include:
- Increased light penetration
- Reduced wind resistance
- Lower overall canopy weight
- Reduced mechanical stress on limbs
This is often a balanced alternative to heavier reductions where structural relief is required.
Crown Reduction
Crown reduction reduces the overall height and spread of a tree while maintaining a balanced and natural form.
This is often undertaken to:
- Relieve mechanical stress
- Reduce leverage on long limbs
- Manage growth within confined urban spaces
- Reduce risk without full removal
Crown reduction should not be confused with “topping” or “lopping”, which can lead to excessive regrowth and structural weakness. Our reductions are carried out carefully in accordance with BS3998 standards to ensure correct pruning cuts and long-term tree stability.
If structural issues are more severe, tree felling may be required, and we can advise accordingly.
pollarding
Pollarding is commonly used for street and urban trees. It involves removing regrowth back to established pollard points on a regular cycle.
When carried out correctly, pollarding:
- Maintains tree size within confined spaces
- Reduces long-term structural risk
- Preserves green canopy in urban environments
Regular management is essential to ensure regrowth does not become hazardous.
THINGS YOU MAY NEED TO KNOW...
What does a tree surgeon do?
What is the difference between crown reduction and crown thinning?
When is the best time of year for tree surgery?
The best time depends on the species and type of pruning required. Some trees benefit from dormant season pruning, while others respond better to summer work. We provide guidance during a site visit to ensure work is carried out at the most suitable time.
Will pruning damage my tree?
When carried out professionally and in accordance with BS3998 standards, tree surgery should improve structure and reduce risk. Poor or excessive pruning can cause long-term issues, which is why work should always be undertaken by qualified arborists.
Do I need permission before tree surgery?
Some trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or are located within conservation areas. We can check this for you and assist with applications through our tree work planning service in Bristol if required.
How much does tree surgery cost in Bristol?
Costs vary depending on the size of the tree, the complexity of the work and site access. Following a site visit, we provide a clear written quotation outlining the recommended work and pricing.
Can tree surgery prevent the need for tree removal?
PROFESSIONAL ADVICE & SITE VISITS
If you are unsure which type of tree surgery is appropriate, we are happy to arrange a site visit and provide clear guidance. To discuss your requirements, contact Cambium Tree Care and a member of our team will be happy to assist.