Each tree will be individually considered in relation to the shape, size, character, condition, site and species of tree. All operations will be completed leaving each tree in an acceptable, well-balanced and safe condition.

Each branch will be removed using the ABC cut method where risk of tearing is reduced. All final cuts will be made at the branch collar, with the branch collar remaining intact. Under no circumstances will any flush cuts be made. All cuts will be made to the standards set out in the guidelines BS3998 (1989).

All large limbs will be lowered by ropes and slings to avoid damage to the tree and its surroundings. We will ensure that all sections fall to the ground in a controlled manner. Dead, diseased or damaged branches will be pruned back to the corresponding branch collar. In the case of crossed rubbing branches, the branches will be assessed, pruned or removed appropriately, whilst ensuring that a reasonable overall shape is maintained.

The reduction of a tree is necessary when the tree has outgrown its environment. A tree can be reduced by anything up to 50%, but the usual amount is 30%. When a tree is reduced the original shape of the tree should be maintained even after pruning.

The crown thinning of a tree is necessary when the crown has become too dense. The tree will be thinned to minimise the weight of the crown and allow the wind to pass through more easily or to encourage light to penetrate the crown.

The pollarding of a tree is the most drastic form of pruning, but for some species (such as poplar or willow) in the wrong environment, this form of pruning is essential.

Reducing back from property is performed on a tree when it encroaches onto a property. Careful pruning is essential to maintain a healthy shaped tree, whilst avoiding any damage to the property.

Section felling will be used in situations where there is a risk of damage occurring to any property or harm to the public. The work consists of the entire removal of the tree, in sections. If a delay between felling and stump removal is to occur, the stump will be left at a minimum height of 1.5 metres (to ensure it is not a trip hazard). Section felled trees will be dismantled using the step cut, break off and controlled throw method with the use of lowering ropes.

The straight fell of trees is the removal of trees as a single unit. Straight felling will be limited to such situations that pose no risk of damage to any property or persons whatsoever. Trees to be straight felled will be guided by the use of pulling ropes and felling wedges as necessary to ensure the correct direction of controlled fall.

Formative pruning will be carried out to young trees, up to 5m in height, with the objective to develop the tree into a well-shaped and balanced specimen. They must be carried out in accordance with the nature of the tree. Weak, crossing, dead, diseased or dying branches will be removed. Where appropriate, crowns will be lifted, thinned and reduced in size. Stakes and ties will be replaced or adjusted, or if the tree is of sufficient size to support itself, stakes and ties will be removed totally.

Stump removal consists of the complete removal of the stump and any lateral roots of the tree and may be undertaken either using hand tools or a machine (stump grinder). Stump grinding involves the removal of stump to a specified depth, generally between 150m and 300m. Upon completion of stump removal, the remaining hole will be back-filled with soil or grinding waste to leave a level surface.

A hole will be dug that is bigger than the root ball. The tree will be planted into the hole and then backfilled with soil. (When backfilling, the nursery mark of the tree will not be submerged below the soil.) The tree will then be twin staked with two ties. Mulch will be added to the tree pit to minimise water loss and prevent weed growth.