How much it costs depends on how much comes off. How much can come off depends on the tree, and that is not negotiable.
Quoted on the tree's size, how much is being removed, the species, access and the waste. An overgrown tree in a small garden usually needs sectional work rather than straightforward cutting, because there is nowhere for material to fall.
We do not publish a fixed price list for tree work, because the honest answer is that it varies far more than a list would suggest.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.
| Tree | Tolerance of hard cutting |
|---|---|
| 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.
Topping means cutting a tree off at a level, like a hedge. It leaves large open wounds, provokes dense weak regrowth that is poorly attached, and creates a tree that is more hazardous in ten years than it was before. It is cheaper on the day and it is not something we do. A proper reduction shortens branches back to suitable growth points and keeps the tree's natural shape.
See what our tree surgery service covers in Hengrove, or read more about the service across the areas we work in.
It is quoted on the tree's size, how much is being removed, species, access and waste. In a small garden it usually needs sectional work, because there is nowhere for material to fall.
Around a fifth to a quarter of the crown in one operation on a healthy tree, and less on a mature or stressed one. More than that provokes weak regrowth that is worse later.
Topping cuts a tree off at a level like a hedge. It leaves large wounds, provokes weak regrowth and creates a more hazardous tree. It is not something we do.
Birch particularly, and beech prefers light frequent work. Conifers will not reshoot from bare wood, and cherry and plum must be pruned in summer.
Usually, and often it solves the actual problem better. Describe what is bothering you rather than the operation you think you need.
Most trees need revisiting every three to five years after a reduction, less often on slow species and sooner on vigorous ones like willow.
Where a lot needs to come off, yes. Staging is better for the tree and produces a better long-term result than one severe cut.
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.
