Straightforward to price. Less straightforward to promise, because the tree decides how much can come off.
A crown reduction is quoted on the tree's size, how much is coming off, the species, access, rigging and waste. On a large tree it is a day's work for a crew and produces a great deal of material.
We do not publish a fixed price list for tree work, because the honest answer is that it varies far more than a list would suggest. What we can do is explain exactly what changes the number.
A crown reduction shortens the branches back to suitable growth points, reducing the tree's overall size while keeping its natural shape. It is not topping — cutting a tree off at a level like a hedge — which leaves large open wounds, provokes dense weak regrowth and creates a tree that is more hazardous in ten years than it was before. Topping is cheaper on the day and it is not something we do.
| Tree | Tolerance |
|---|---|
| Lime | Very tolerant; regrows vigorously |
| Sycamore and ash | Tolerant |
| Willow | Very tolerant; needs regular work |
| Oak | Tolerant but slow; prune conservatively |
| Birch | Poor. Dislikes heavy pruning |
| Beech | Moderate; better lightly and often |
| Cherry and plum | Summer pruning only |
| Conifers | Poor; will not reshoot from bare wood |
Tell us what you need and we will arrange a free quotation.
See what our tree surgery service covers in Brislington, or read more about the service across the areas we work in.
It is quoted on the tree's size, how much is coming off, species, access, rigging and waste. On a large tree it is usually a day for a crew.
Around a fifth to a quarter of the crown in one operation on a healthy tree, and less on a mature or stressed one.
No. Topping cuts a tree off at a level, leaving large wounds and provoking weak regrowth. A reduction shortens branches to suitable growth points and keeps the natural shape.
Birch particularly, and beech prefers light frequent work. Conifers will not reshoot from bare wood, and cherry and plum must be pruned in summer.
No. Most trees need revisiting every three to five years, sooner on vigorous species like willow and poplar.
No. Crown work does not affect root spread, so it is not the remedy for concerns about roots near a building.
Often, if the problem is light or clearance rather than size. Both cost less and a lift lasts longer.
Possibly. Check with Bristol City Council for a Tree Preservation Order or conservation area status first.
Need tree surgery, hedge maintenance, fencing, garden clearance, turfing or power washing? Complete the form and tell us what work you require.
