We are professional tree surgeons that can provide the full range of arboricultural services across Kent, Sussex and beyond. We know trees. We love trees. That's why we do what we do, and nothing else.
Pruning
Pruning is a silvicultural practice involving the selective removal or shortening of branches. Reasons include improving or maintaining health, encouraging directional growth, and increasing the yield of fruits and flowers. The timing of pruning and placement of cuts are important factors in the health of the tree.
Felling
At LSR Tree Surgery we love trees! We would rather see trees standing healthily in their resplendent natural form. However, for many valid reasons, you may wish to remove a tree. Regardless of the size, we are fully equipped and qualified to remove your tree safely. This may be done by cutting it near the base and felling it in one piece. If the tree is in a confined space it is more appropriate to dismantle it in sections.
A recent job involved dismantling a Horse Chestnut tree at a National Trust property that was decaying and falling apart. The wood was taken away; some to our habitat pile at our yard where we have stag beetles. The smaller branches were chipped, with some retained for mulch in the vegetable garden.
Reducing
Crown reduction is the process of pruning back the canopy of the tree. This may be for the purpose of gaining more light to your property or to bring the tree back into a tidier, compact shape. Retrenchment pruning on large old trees can prolong their lifespan so they need not be removed.
A recent job was to lightly reduce an Oak tree in Robertsbridge. The canopy was growing ever closer to the owner’s house on one side, and becoming an increasing concern with telephone wires on the other side. All cut material was taken away.
Thinning
Crown thinning is the process of removing selected branches (usually dead, weak, overlapping and duplicated branches) from the crown of the tree to improve the balance and structure of the tree. Crown thinning lets more light through the branches and 'lightens' the tree making it appear less dense.
A recent job was to thin a very large Oak tree in Crowborough. The tree had been severely reduced in the past, resulting in an unnaturally dense canopy. We selectively removed branches to return the tree to a more natural state. It was important not to thin a tree too much, as the branches within the canopy are dependent on each other for protection against strong winds by dissipating energy. This is known as companion sheltering.
Removal of dangerous limbs
Trees are surprisingly strong, but it is sometimes better to be safe than sorry. Excessively heavy branches or dead or damaged branches are best dealt with before a potential accident happens. Willow, Poplar, Beech and Horse Chestnut are particularly prone to losing branches. Conversely, Oak, Hornbeam and Plane tend to be very strong.
Coppicing
Most trees regrow from the stump if cut down. Therefore coppiced trees can live many hundreds of years, rather than die of old age. In traditional woodland management, cut stumps or stools have been repeatedly cut (or coppiced) over centuries and this practice continues today.
Stump grinding
Stump grinding is the process of removing the stump that is left after cutting a tree down. Using a specialist machine the stump is ground down to leave the area clear for replanting or turfing. If the space is not needed for replanting or turfing, we recommend leaving the stump to slowly rot. This will save you money and become a great home for all sorts of insects and fungi.
Tree condition reports
As a professional member of the Arboricultural Association, and a Lantra-qualified Professional Tree Inspector, we have the expertise to assess and report on the health and condition of trees. We have the knowledge and experience to help guide you in tree management decisions, incorporating all relevant factors from risk to wildlife implications, and everything in between.
Other services
Tree condition reports and site surveys
Hedges and topiary
All work is carried out to an exceptional standard by our trained and experienced staff. We are fully insured and all work undertaken is fully compliant with BS3998: Tree Work-Recommendations.
Thorough and complete service based on a passion for trees
LSR Tree Surgery
We operate across the South East of England in the domestic, commercial and public sector.
Please contact us now for a free quote or impartial advice on your trees.