Professional Tree Surgeons in Harpenden & St. Albans, Hertfordshire

Crown Thinning and Reductions may be necessary at some point in a tree’s life to encourage its healthy growth. When carrying out Crown Thinning the arborist selectively removes branches, increasing the levels of sunlight penetrating the crown and improving the circulation of air through the tree.

The removal of deadwood is often necessary for trees that have suffered storm damage, from higher foliage shadowing lower branches or through previous “lopping” activities.

Conifer hedges are at their most attractive when pruned to form a dense leafy coverage.

To achieve a desirable hedge it is necessary for it to be pruned in the correct manner with long shoots holding insufficient side branches being pruned to encourage the denser side branches.

Pruning is undertaken in such a way that a gradient from the top to the bottom of the hedge is achieved.

Producing a hedge where the top is narrower than the base ensures that sufficient sunlight will reach the hedge at all levels.

Hedges that have not been maintained in this way may be able to be retrained by the arborist to achieve a hedge that is a more desirable and of manageable size.

Ornamental Trees require a different approach in the method of pruning as each cut can have a dramatic and lasting effect on the on the appearance of the tree.

An arborist’s approach to pruning also differs depending on the age of the tree. Pruning of trees while they are still young reduces the risk of decay occurring at the source of the cut as young trees are faster growing and therefore more resilient.

Ideally unwanted branches on a young tree should be removed when they are less than two inches in diameter.

We provide a full tree and shrub planting service from small trees through to semi mature, either as bare root stock or as containerised plants. We have long standing relationships with a number of local nurseries and we can help you choose the best species for your site.

Franks Forestry Contractors Limited will remove any remaining visible signs of a stump.

We can provide you with an impartial tree survey, comprehensive written tree reports, free and detailed estimates for any remedial work required and a professional, punctual and polite service.

Franks Forestry Contractors offer a full and reliable 24 hour emergency call out service. We can respond to a variety of emergency situations whether it be making safe dangerous trees or removing fallen trees blocking vital access ways. We realise how important a quick and effective service can be in matters such as these, we will act to the best of our ability to ensure your safety and peace of mind.

Routine tree management is particularly of benefit for owners of individual or groups of trees in a garden or woodland / park setting, especially if there is public access or the boundaries adjoin public highways.

The tree(s) will be plotted on a plan, individually numbered, identified by species with a detailed account of the health, condition and structural integrity together with any recommendations for works.

The recommendations for any necessary works are categorised by priority so that a management programme can be established in order that implementation and budgeting of works can be spread over a number of seasons.