About Trees Ltd – Kent Tree Surgeon

What’s the Difference Between an Arborist and a Tree Surgeon?

What is the Difference Between an Arborist and a Tree Surgeon | Understanding the Differences Between an Arborist and a Tree Surgeon

If you need a professional to perform tree care work, it’s useful to be able to understand exactly who can help you. In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of the differences between an arborist and a tree surgeon, helping you determine what you need.

Many of us tend to use the terms ‘arborist’ and ‘tree surgeon’ interchangeably (some in the tree care industry even make the mistake!) However, although they share some similarities, arborist and tree surgeon are actually two discrete professions.

By understanding the differences between them, individuals can be better informed about which professional they might need for any tree care work that they need carried out.

So, let’s take a look at the definitions of ‘Arborist’ and ‘Tree Surgeon’:

Definition of Arborist

The most straightforward definition of an arborist is that they are a professional who focuses on the overall health and maintenance of trees. Generally speaking, arborists are trained to understand tree biology, physiology, and the environmental factors that affect tree health. This means that arborists tend to be certified, often through official organisations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or The Arboricultural Association.

In terms of the work they do, arborists provide services ranging from tree pruning to pest and disease management, and from tree planting to soil management.

Definition of Tree Surgeon

Compared to an arborist, a tree surgeon primarily focuses on the physical care and surgical procedures required for trees. Tree surgeons will possess skills when it comes to using specialised equipment to treat trees that are damaged, diseased, or structurally unsafe (including tree/branch removal or crown reduction).

While tree surgeons often also have an understanding of tree health and biology, their primary focus is on the practical aspects of tree care, removal, and restoration.

Difference Arborist Tree Surgeon About Trees Kent Whitstable

Do I Need to Hire an Arborist or a Tree Surgeon?

Depending on the work you need done – and the condition of your trees and landscape – you might require either professional.

Arborists will take a holistic approach to tree care, focusing on the entire ecosystem surrounding a tree, including soil quality, sunlight, and tree species compatibility. This approach will be based on the certifications they have acquired.

Contrastingly, tree surgeons tend to have a more task-oriented approach, focusing on the immediate needs of the tree, such as removing unhealthy branches or uprooting a tree that poses a risk. They will offer practical solutions to the immediate problem at hand.

Here are some examples to illustrate when you might require one over the other:

Project Examples for Arborists

  1. Tree Planting: If you need to consult a professional about tree planting, arborists will come armed with a degree-level understanding of which tree species are best to plant for your natural environment. They’ll give you practical advice on planting techniques and everything you need to do to make sure your tree thrives.
  2. Investigating Diseases: If you notice strange symptoms in your trees – including things like wilting leaves or discolouration – an arborist is required to diagnose the problem. They will inform you about the cause of the disease, offer strategies for disease management, and suggest preventative measures for the future.
  3. General Ongoing Maintenance Projects: When it comes to routine tree care management – such as regular pruning or soil testing – an arborist is your best contact. They can create long-term maintenance plans that promote tree health and vitality.

Project Examples for Tree Surgeons

  1. Emergency Tree Removal: If a tree has fallen or is at risk of falling due to any number of environmental reasons, a tree surgeon will assess the situation and safely remove the tree, preventing it from becoming a hazard.
  2. Structural Repairs: When a tree has split or is suffering from limb decay, a tree surgeon will need to be called to take action. They will trim or brace the tree, preserving it and maintaining safety.
  3. Stump Grinding: After a tree has been removed, a tree surgeon can be called upon to grind down the leftover stump, making space for new planting or lawn usage.

Conclusion – Know Your Professional to Get The Best Service Possible

As this article makes clear, the professional you need for your tree work will depend on the exact nature of your project’s requirements. Arborists can assist you when it comes to the long-term health and maintenance of your trees, while tree surgeons can help you when it comes to taking immediate action (such as a branch falling or a tree being uprooted).

If you need to contact a tree specialist to carry out the specific kind of work detailed in this article, contact About Trees for a free consultation.

About Trees Ltd. is a long established tree surgeon and arborist that offers a professional tree care service around Kent including Faversham, Whitstable, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Ashford, Maidstone and more. We build long lasting relationships, built on honesty and trust and are Kent Trading Standards Approved and CHAS accredited.

Our team has 25 years of knowledge working with trees with all our crews fully trained and certificated as well as carrying up-to-date First Aid qualifications and DBS checks.

Difference Arborist Tree Surgeon About Trees Kent Whitstable Maidstone Canterbury

Who Is Responsible For Tree Care Near Power Network Lines?

Caring For A Tree Near Power Network Lines in the UK – Who is Responsible and What Should I Do? | Do I Need to Trim Trees Near BT/UKPN Cables?

Tall trees can provide an abundance of shade, beauty, and life to our natural surroundings. However, if they come into contact with power lines, they can also be incredibly disruptive – not to mention that they can become safety risks for you, your neighbours, and the entire local area. Here, we’ll explain what to do if a tree on your land is too close to power network cables.

While trees are beautiful additions to our natural landscape, they obviously have a habit of growing in their own way…

For private homeowners or business owners, that can mean trees and their branches growing to such an extent that they are dangerously near BT or UK Power Networks cables.

It should go without saying that this is a major issue for both the owner of the property where the tree is located, and for the companies who oversee the cables (as well as for the local community at large).

In this blog, we’ll take a look at who is responsible for caring for trees that are near/in conflict with power lines, as well as what you can do to sort this issue.

Who is Legally Responsible For Caring For Trees Near Power Cables?

The owner of the property is legally responsible for the care of their trees, meaning they need to make sure their trees aren’t interfering with UKPN cables.

However, what they do about an overgrown tree might depend on several different factors.

UK Power Networks specifically covers London, East and South East and asks on their website for homeowners to contact them if they notice trees or bushes becoming overgrown. Often, this is so that they can report the issue and arrange a visit to the affected area themselves.

Homeowners can freephone 105 to get through to their local network to then enquire about tree trimming.

Once there, they will assess the work that needs to be done. If a tree or bush needs to be dealt with, they will inform the homeowner/business owner and tell them what steps need to be taken next.

Tree Power Network Lines About Trees Tree Surgeon Arborist Kent Whitstable Canterbury Tunbridge Wells Maidstone

What Will Happen Next?

Based on the assessment from the energy company, it is likely that a tree specialist will need to be called to trim the tree and give it proper care so that it doesn’t interfere with power lines.

In terms of who pays for the work that needs to be done, the energy company might decide to cover this themselves. However, legally speaking, the owner of the tree has ultimate responsibility, meaning they should be fully prepared to be responsible for all work and costs.

Should I Hire A Tree Specialist / Arborist?

If you find yourself in a situation similar to those discussed above, you might deliberate about the best course of action.

While some might believe they can sort the issue themselves, there are serious risks involved if you don’t consult a tree specialist.

In this section, we’ll lay out some of the benefits and risks of hiring a tree care specialist to do the work:

Benefits of Hiring a Tree Specialist/Arborist:

  • You get the best service: Let’s be clear, an arborist is going to deal with an issue in exactly the way it needs to be dealt with. They will trim your tree to the exact requirements laid out by the energy company and the local authorities. They’ll also do all of this while trying to mitigate any adverse effects brought on by your tree having to be trimmed in the first place.
  • You ensure your own safety: Tree care can often be dangerous work – which is why it’s better when it’s carried out by a specialist. The last thing you want is to fall and hurt yourself over the small matter of removing a branch near a power line.
  • You are legally covered: Tree specialists will know the legal requirements of their work, and they will carry out their work with this in mind. This means that you won’t run into any legal issues.

Risks of Hiring a Tree Specialist/Arborist:

  • Cost: It should be noted that there are no actual risks of hiring a tree specialist to undertake this kind of work, except that it will obviously incur a cost. However, it is important to note that this cost doesn’t always fall on the home/business owner, as sometimes the energy company will cover the cost. Either way, the cost is very small compared to the issues a tree owner will face if they don’t carry out the work they are legally required to do.

Conclusion – Keep Yourself and Your Local Area Safe

By trimming your tree that’s close to power network lines, you’re ensuring that your own property and those in your surrounding area remain safe and risk-free.

If you need to contact a tree specialist to carry out the specific kind of work detailed in this article, contact About Trees for a free consultation.

About Trees – Kent Tree Surgeon and Arborist

About Trees Ltd. is a long established tree surgeon and arborist that offers a professional tree care service around Kent including Faversham, Whitstable, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Ashford, Maidstone and more.

We build long lasting relationships, built on honesty and trust and are Kent Trading Standards Approved and CHAS accredited. Our team has 25 years of knowledge working with trees with all our crews fully trained and certificated as well as carrying up-to-date First Aid qualifications and DBS checks.

Tree Power Network Lines About Trees Tree Surgeon Arborist Kent Whitstable Canterbury Tunbridge Wells

What to Consider When Planting Trees Near Your Property | Risks, Rewards, and Ideal Species For Planting Trees Near Your House

If you’re a homeowner, and considering planting trees near your property but unsure on the risks then this blog is especially for you.

Naturally, you’ll want to do everything possible to enhance your property’s value and general appearance. Planting trees is one of the simplest, most cost-effective, and most environmentally friendly ways of doing this – but it can come with risks if not done right. In this article, we’ll take a look at everything you need to consider when planting trees near your property/house Trees go a long way to enhancing your property.

Trees do a whole of things: they provide shade, create a welcoming natural environment, foster biodiversity, and improve air quality. That’s all before mentioning the simple fact that – when kept healthy – they just look great outside your house.

But before breaking ground and planting rows of the nearest available trees outside your property, there are some risks to be aware of, as well as considerations about the best species to plant and the soil type you’re working with within your property.

At About Trees, our tree care specialists have dealt with homeowners who have transformed their gardens into tree-filled nature havens – and others who have called upon us because their tree-planting efforts caused them problems they hadn’t previously foreseen.

Let’s take a look at the risks and considerations you’ll need to keep in mind when planting trees near your property:

About Trees Hedge Trimming Service Kent Canterbury Maidstone Ashford Tunbridge Wells Whitstable Sevenoaks Tree Surgeon Planting Trees Near Property

The key risks of planting trees near home

While we don’t need to stress again the benefits of planting trees near your home, planting them too close can pose several dangers.

Root damage

Plenty goes on beneath the surface of your trees – and some of it can harm your property’s foundations.

Tree roots can cause structural damage to your home, your footpaths, and your underground plumbing. This is because roots tend to seek moisture and nutrients.

In doing so, they can invade sewer lines or cause upheaval in foundation work. Proximity to buildings should be carefully measured – and if in any doubt, you should immediately contact us for advice.

Overhanging branches

You’ll no doubt have seen haunted house films with unruly tree branches scraping along window panes – but it’s important to be aware that trees planted too close to a property come with their own horror stories…

Overhanging branches can damage roofs, gutters, and façades during storms or high winds, while fallen branches can also pose safety risks to people.

Maintenance burdens

Following on from the overhanging branches consideration, homeowners should be aware that trees will require maintenance – and if they’re planted too close to a property, then that maintenance can quickly become a burden.

Trees planted too close to a homeowner’s property will require frequent trimming or pruning, while trees planted too close to a neighbouring house require plenty of maintenance and could even require tree cutting if they impinge on a neighbour’s land.

The importance of soil type

Trees need good soil for a range of essentials, including air, minerals, nutrients, anchorage, and – importantly – water absorption.

Before you decide on the positioning and the species of tree to plant on your property, it’s vital to assess your soil type. As a Kent based tree specialist, we know that the soil in this region varies, meaning that certain trees might achieve stronger growth in certain soils.

If your property has clay soil, you should be aware that this type drains poorly, leading to problematic root growth for many tree species. Meanwhile, sandy loam (also found in abundance in Kent) offers opportunities for a variety of species to grow well.

A soil test, carried out by a tree care specialist, can provide insights into pH levels and nutrient concentration, which is crucial for understanding the soil and choosing the suitable tree species.

Choosing the right species for your property

To ensure ideal growth and longevity for the trees surrounding your property, getting the species right is important. Here are several tree species to consider if you live on a property based in Kent:

Silver Birch (Betula pendula)

Silver birch trees are great because they thrive in various soil types and are relatively low maintenance. They can also improve biodiversity in the area surrounding your property, as they attract birds.

Yew (Taxus baccata)

Yew trees are aesthetically pleasing and well-known for their longevity. This is an ideal tree choice for your property, providing the planting area you’re working with isn’t overly wet (as it will start to yellow in this type of soil).

Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia)

Rowan trees are known for performing well in poor and rocky soils, meaning they will be well-suited for a whole range of properties. They will also attract plenty of wildlife to your garden!

About Trees Hedge Trimming Service Kent Canterbury Maidstone Ashford Tunbridge Wells Whitstable Sevenoaks Tree Surgery Planting Trees Near Property

Optimum planting time of the year

It’ll no doubt make sense that timing is as crucial for growing healthy trees as choosing the suitable species and getting the right soil conditions.

Spring is the best time to plant trees, with warmer, rising temperatures and increased soil moisture. Planting in early spring can ensure that root systems are established before summer (although if you plant too early, your young trees might be affected by a later winter frost – we don’t need to stress that British winters can be unpredictable!)

Later summer/autumn can be a good time for planting trees if you’re in a region with milder winters.

At this time of year, soil conditions will be ideal, and tree roots will be well-equipped to absorb moisture and nutrients by the time the growing season officially begins.

Again, we must stress that planting should occur well before winter, or your tree roots will be frozen before they get a chance to grow.

In conclusion

If you’re considering planting trees near your property, it’s always worth taking onboard the above considerations.

If you are in any doubt about the right choice of species – or whether there are any risks to your choice – please contact the team at About Trees as we are Kent’s tree care specialist.

Reach out to us here.

How often should you water newly planted trees?

If you’re wondering how often you need to water newly planted trees, or if you’re simply hoping to find out more about the maintenance behind caring for your new trees, this blog will offer you plenty of advice – including how About Trees expert services can help you maintain your green outdoor spaces.

Planting new trees and caring for them through their growth is one of the most rewarding experiences you can ask for – it’s also a perfect way of engaging with nature, enhancing your garden, and playing a small part in making sure our overall environments stay healthy, thriving, and beautiful.

However, newly planted trees require meticulous maintenance to ensure that they survive all the challenges that nature throws at them.

In particular, these trees need plenty of water to sustain them at the start – and their owners should be prepared to provide them with dedicated care during the early, vulnerable stage after just being planted.

In this blog, we’ll take a look at how often newly planted trees need to be watered, as well as how experienced tree experts like About Trees can help you with your tree-care needs:

Why do newly planted trees need to be watered carefully?

The reason newly planted trees need to be watered so carefully is because these trees will not have established root systems in the beginning, leaving them particularly vulnerable to issues like stunted growth or yellowing.

It is not enough to hope that a newly planted tree will get the sustenance it needs on its own; often, trees that aren’t cared for or given the right amount of water will yellow, wither, or even die.

They need that extra bit of manmade help to get them through that early stage of being newly planted…

About Trees Water Newly Planted Trees Kent Tree Surgeon

Factors to consider when watering newly planted trees

When it comes to actually watering your newly planted trees and considering how often to do so, you’ll need to consider several factors:

Weather conditions

It should come as no surprise that weather conditions will majorly affect how much water your newly planted trees need. If you are from a hotter climate or live in an area where there is little rainfall, you will need to adjust your watering schedule based on factors related to this climate.

Similarly, if your trees are planted in an area where there is a lot of rainfall, you should consider how much supplementary water is needed to ensure your trees have the right amount.

Remember, the distribution of rainfall in the UK can vary widely, meaning you’ll need to understand your own unique patch of the world so that your growing trees have exactly what they need to thrive!

Soil type

The type of soil in which your tree will be planted can affect things like water retention, meaning it can affect the growth of your trees. Soil types can vary widely.

If you are in any doubt, it is often best to consult an expert tree care service provider like ourselves.

Species of newly planted trees

The species of the newly planted tree will, of course, determine the amount of water needed to keep it healthy. Different trees have different requirements. For example, willows have a higher water requirement than pines and oaks.

Monitoring the tree itself

Even if you have done all the research, prepared accordingly, and mapped out a watering schedule, you will still need to adjust your trees’ watering requirements based on your own monitoring of their growth.

Every newly planted tree is different, so constant monitoring is required!

About Trees Water Newly Planted Trees Kent Tree Surgery

Helpful tips and how to avoid common mistakes

There are helpful tips and ways to avoid common mistakes when it comes to watering newly planted trees.

One tip that can greatly help you is monitoring your soil moisture levels regularly, in order to get a sense of how much water your tree is consuming. You can do this simply by inserting your finger a few inches into the soil to determine how dry it is; this will give you a sense of how quickly the tree is consuming moisture and the frequency with which you should be providing it with water.

On the other side of things, one common mistake that gardeners often make is over-watering their newly planted trees.

We understand there is a temptation to keep pouring litre after litre of water onto your tree in the hope that it will never run dry, but this can often be just as problematic as giving it no water at all. Overwatering can suffocate the roots of trees, limiting their access to oxygen.

If your tree has been overwatered, it will often display soft roots, or there might even be a bad smell coming from the soil. Be watchful of these things, to ensure you’re not pouring too much water on your tree’s roots.

Conclusion: dedication is key – and consulting specialists can help

While a lot of factors will affect your newly planted tree’s growth, you can make sure it stays healthy by staying dedicated, patient, and careful in your approach.

And, if you need any help or advice at all, you should consult with tree care specialists, who will understand exactly what your newly planted trees need. About Trees, located in Kent, is committed to offering an expert service. Find out more about what we do for our customers by clicking here.


About Trees Ltd is a dedicated tree surgeon based in Whitstable, Kent providing arboriculture and tree care services to homes and properties in Canterbury, Margate, Ashford, Dover, Maidstone, Ramsgate and many more Kent towns and cities.

Bird Nesting Season: How Does Bird Nesting Affect Tree Work in the UK and What You Should Do to Avoid Harming Birds?

Bird nesting season typically runs from March into autumn in the UK, during which time birds will be actively building nests, laying eggs, or raising their young. All of this, of course, is a regular, everyday part of nature – but you might find that it can cause a headache for you if you require any tree work during this time.

With that in mind, About Trees has put together a handy guide for what you should do to avoid harming birds during nesting season, and staying on top of all relevant wildlife legislation.

Nesting season is a crucial time for the survival of many bird species throughout the UK. It’s also a crucial time for members of the public and tree work experts – who can play a small part in ensuring that our natural environments stay protected.

During the nesting season – which typically runs from March to September/October in the UK – you will see many species actively building nests in trees, either to lay eggs or raise their young.

Under UK legislation aimed at protecting nesting birds, tree surgeons and tree work experts have added responsibilities when it comes to their work during this period. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the obligations required when it comes to protecting birds:

What is the legislation around bird nesting in the UK?

The main piece of legislation on bird nesting in the UK is The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This legislation gives robust legal protection for wild birds and their nests, their eggs, and their young.

With regards to tree work, the legislation states that it is illegal to intentionally or recklessly disturb nesting birds, meaning that any tree work carried out during this time must be carefully planned and executed to minimise the risk of disturbance.

Bird Nesting Season About Trees Tree Surgery Kent

How does bird nesting affect tree work?

As experienced tree surgeons based in Kent, About Trees understands the Wildlife and Conservative legislation, and we are fully committed to complying with all relevant guidelines to protect nesting birds.

While tree work can sometimes be a lot more tricky during the nesting season, we go the extra length of conducting pre-work checks, so as to thoroughly identify nesting sites and take appropriate measures to avoid all disturbance. As with all experienced tree work companies, we will always legally and ethically comply with the legislation, meaning that we will be thorough in our checks, and we’ll stop work or postpone it if an active nest is found.

Within our pre-work checks, we also go to added lengths to try to identify whether or not ground nesting is present in the area. Ground nesting birds, such as skylarks, are often vulnerable during the nesting season. These birds build their nests on grassland and heathland habitats, making them susceptible to disturbance from tree work going on around them.

In addition, when working in areas where nesting may be present within the wider vicinity, we take extra care to minimise the risk of disturbance. This will often involve: adjusting our work schedule; implementing exclusion zones around nesting sites; being mindful of how work we carry out might expose nesting birds to the elements; and using machinery which features reduced noise.

What is the best way to avoid harming birds during bird nesting season?

If you are a client looking for us to carry out tree work on your behalf, the best action you can take is simply being mindful of the legislation in the UK and patient when it comes to the limitations imposed on us during nesting season.

In some cases, we might find it necessary to postpone tree work until the nesting season is over to avoid harming nesting birds. While this may cause inconvenience, the protection of wildlife and adherence to legal requirements are our top priorities and part of our commitment to excellence.

We are always happy to discuss these matters with our clients individually. We want to make sure that our clients feel empowered, educated, and understood when talking through specific issues related to their tree needs. Quite often, clients will appreciate the care and attentiveness we put into ensuring their needs are met, while also meeting all legal, ethical, and moral requirements on the part of our wonderful environments!

Conclusion: Working For Nature and For Our Clients

All tree work requires meticulous planning and expertise, and that’s all before mentioning the careful legislation involved which is designed to protect nature and animal habitats. When it comes to bird nesting and operating during bird nesting season, we will always do everything we can to work for our clients, while also working for a better natural environment.

If you want to discuss how we can help you then please get in touch.

Bird Nesting Season About Trees Tree Surgery Whitstable Kent
Bird Nesting Season About Trees Tree Surgery Whitstable Kent

Who is Responsible for Cutting an Overhanging Tree in the UK? [Understanding the Legalities and Your Rights]

An overhanging tree can not only be a nuisance and a disruption, but in some cases, they can even damage an individual’s property if not dealt with.

So who is responsible for cutting back an overhanging tree in the UK? Here’s everything you need to know regarding cutting back an overhanging tree, ensuring you know your legalities, and who you should consult if you need to scale back an unruly tree…

It should really go without saying that trees are beautiful, majestic, and life-giving – integral to our natural environment and the overall character of our country’s landscapes.

But trees come with responsibilities, especially when property and individual rights are concerned.

One of the issues which About Trees Ltd deals with frequently is that of overhanging trees – and who is responsible when a part of a tree extends or hangs over one person’s property and encroaches onto another’s.

Trees must be properly maintained, and the law is very clear on what can be done to ensure trees are managed in the right way so that property, personal and environmental rights are all respected.

Below, we’ll answer the question commonly asked of us: “Who is responsible for cutting an overhanging tree?”

Firstly, what are the legalities around cutting overhanging trees in the UK?

Let’s start off with the straightforward stuff. Under UK law, you are entitled to trim or cut any overhanging branches from your neighbour’s tree, up to the boundary of your property. This is known in UK law as the “right to abate a nuisance.” The main legal requirement is that, if you choose to cut from an overhanging tree, you must not trespass onto your neighbour’s property to do so. Other than that, you’re well within your rights to cut from a tree which is encroaching on your property.

The main caveat is that certain trees or areas are protected under specific laws in the UK. For example, if a tree is located in a Conservation Area or has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), it has additional protections. Failure to comply with the protected status of these trees can result in penalties, including fines and legal action.

It is recommended that you check with your local council or a professional tree surgeon, like About Trees, to ensure you are always following the law when dealing with overhanging trees.

About Trees Overhanging Tree Neighbour Garden Tree Surgeon Kent

So, can I cut off a part of an overhanging tree that is on my property?

As stated, if branches from a neighbouring tree are overhanging onto your property, you have the right to trim back the branches to the property boundary. However, you must do this entirely within your own property. Additionally, UK law has a somewhat strange additional requirement: any arisings (meaning the cuttings from the overhanging tree), must be offered back to the tree owner. This is a legal obligation.

Finally, it should be noted that when it comes to things like fallen leaves, fruits, or debris, you cannot legally force your neighbour to remove these natural falling occurrences or prevent them from happening – even if they’re on your property.

You might not like them, but in the same way as you also might not like birds doing their business on your patio furniture, there’s only so much that the law can deal with!

Who is actually responsible for cutting an overhanging tree?

By now, you’re likely to have a firm understanding of your legal position when it comes to cutting an overhanging tree, but you might still have questions about who is actually responsible for managing this.

For example, say an overhanging tree is getting so unwieldy that it causes disruption or damage to your property – or if you think managing this intrusion would be too costly to deal with. You might ask, should your neighbour not bear some responsibility for removing it, even if it’s on your property?

These situations are actually quite common, and the most honest answer is that each situation requires dedicated communication between the tree owner and the property owner, otherwise they can become a legal dispute. Every situation involving an overhanging tree will be different from the next, meaning there cannot ever be a single, simple answer.

If you are unsure about your responsibility or your neighbour’s responsibility when it comes to an overhanging tree, consulting a professional tree care expert like About Trees can provide you with the advice and guidance you need – as well as help you to avoid a potentially costly legal battle.

I want to consult a professional service about an overhanging tree. How should I go about this?

If you want information about an overhanging tree, or if you want a specific tree dealt with, you can always seek advice from professionals who understand the complexities of tree management.

About Trees Ltd is a reputable tree surgeon and tree care specialist in Kent, focused on the management of all things trees. Our team of experts can provide you with the guidance and assistance you need to deal with overhanging trees effectively.

If you want to discuss how we can help you then please get in touch.

About Trees Overhanging Tree Neighbour Garden Tree Surgeon Whitstable Kent

How Serious Is Ash Dieback?

Spotting the signs and knowing what can happen if Ash Dieback isn’t properly treated

Ash Dieback has become a serious issue in recent decades, with the disease targeting ash trees throughout the UK and causing their death. In this article, we’ll cover how individuals can spot the early signs of Ash Dieback, how they can inform themselves of what happens if the disease isn’t properly treated, and what they can do to stop the disease from spreading.

Ash Dieback is an incredibly destructive disease, which is currently affecting the UK’s native ash species and leading to damage to our natural ecosystems.

The disease, which is caused by a fungus named Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, was first identified in 2006. It is believed to be of Eastern Asian origin, but has spread throughout many parts of Europe in recent decades. Ash Dieback’s spread was so chronic that it even led the New Scientist magazine to ask the question of whether or not Europe’s ash trees were “finished”, due to the disease’s seemingly unstoppable spread.

The disease was first found in the UK in 2012. While there have been many attempts to mitigate or halt the spread of it in the years since then, it continues to be present throughout much of the UK.

Tree maintenance groups, environmental groups, and other governing bodies throughout the UK are working hard to continue fighting against the spread of Ash Dieback. But individuals in the UK can also play their part, by understanding the disease and alerting relevant groups to its presence in specific areas.

Here’s everything you need to know about spotting the signs of Ash Dieback, what can happen to ash trees if the disease is not properly treated as we answer the question ‘How Serious Is Ash Dieback?’.

What is ash dieback?

Ash Dieback, scientifically known as Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, is a fungal disease that specifically targets ash trees.

Likely originating from Asia, Ash Dieback is an invasive pathogen that has spread across Europe, the British Isles, and North America. The fungus infects trees through their leaves, and can quickly spread throughout the entire tree, ultimately leading to its death. The spores of the fungus can be transmitted by wind, which explains the rapid spread of the disease throughout various countries and continents.

What telltale signs should I look out for when it comes to spotting Ash Dieback?

When trying to identify Ash Dieback, there are several key signs to look out for.

One of the biggest early warning signs to look out for is Crown Dieback, meaning the death or withering of branches at the top of the tree. Premature leaf loss and reduced canopy density are also common characteristics.

Another notable symptom is the wilting and blackening of the leaves, particularly at the tips and edges (leaves which are affected by the disease will often give off the appearance that they have been “burnt”).

As the disease progresses, you may also observe diamond-shaped lesions on the bark (although the exact shape can often vary). These lesions indicate the disease’s invasion within the bark and the tree’s tissue. Additionally, the presence of small, white fruiting bodies on the bark can indicate a severe infection.

Why should I be worried about Ash Dieback?

Ash Dieback poses a genuine, existential threat to both individual ash trees and entire ecosystems.

If left untreated, the disease can lead to the widespread death of ash trees, which are a crucial component of the landscapes and habitats in Kent and, indeed, in counties throughout the UK.

Beyond the obvious aesthetic benefits of having plenty of beautiful ash trees in our natural environments, society should always be made aware that ash trees provide essential ecological services, such as habitat for wildlife, carbon sequestration, and soil stabilisation. The loss of these trees on a widespread basis will almost certainly have knock-on effects on the UK’s biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Got it. What should I do if I spot Ash Dieback?

If you suspect that an ash tree is infected with Ash Dieback, it is essential to act promptly to prevent the spread of the disease. Contact a professional arborist, tree surgeon, arboriculturist, or forestry expert – such as About Trees Ltd – to confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment options. While there is no cure for Ash Dieback, early detection can play a massive role in minimising the disease’s spread.

About Trees Ltd has been proud to play a decisive role in fighting against Ash Dieback in the UK, ensuring that our country’s natural habitats stay healthy and full of life.

Conclusion: Spot the signs – get the treatment

When we think back to the question “How Serious is Ash Dieback?”, we hope you’ll agree based on our blog that it is a fairly strong disease affecting UK trees.

Individuals who are armed with the knowledge of how to spot the signs of Ash Dieback – such as wilting or darkened leaves, Crown Dieback, Lesions on the bark, or epicormic growth (meaning shoots growing from the trunk or branches) – will be well-placed to contact professionals who can deal with the issue.

About Trees Ltd are committed to preserving the health of trees in the UK – as well as fighting back against Ash Dieback.

If you believe you have a case of Ash Dieback, then please get in touch to find out how we can help.

Equality Policy

Introduction – Our Equality Policy

At About Trees Ltd., we recognise and celebrate the diversity of the communities we serve and understand the vital importance of inclusivity and equality in all aspects of our work. Our commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion is rooted in our belief that a diverse workforce, treated equitably and included in decision-making, fosters innovation, creativity, and a deeper understanding of our clients’ needs. This policy outlines our comprehensive approach to ensuring a welcoming, fair, and inclusive environment for all employees, clients, and partners.

Policy Statement

About Trees Ltd. is steadfast in its commitment to promoting diversity, ensuring equality, and fostering an inclusive culture for all employees and applicants without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. We are dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone’s rights are respected and where any form of discrimination, harassment, or exclusion is actively opposed.

Objectives

Promote an Organisational Culture that Embraces Diversity and Equality**: Cultivate an environment where individual differences are valued, and all employees are treated equitably and with respect.

Ensure Equal Opportunities in Employment**: Guarantee fairness in recruitment, career progression, training, and rewards for all employees, addressing and eliminating any barriers to equality.

Inclusivity and Equality in Service Delivery**: Ensure our services are accessible, equitable, and accommodating to all clients, reflecting the diversity of the community we serve.

Supplier Diversity and Equality**: Commit to supporting diversity and equality among our suppliers and contractors, recognising the value of diverse and equitable perspectives in enhancing our business.

Implementation

Recruitment, Selection, and Promotion**: Adopt inclusive, transparent procedures designed to promote diversity and equality. Job advertisements will welcome applications from all, and selection criteria will be based solely on skills and competencies relevant to the role.

Training and Development**: Provide comprehensive diversity, equality, and inclusion training to all employees, fostering an understanding, respect, and appreciation for diversity and equality within the workplace.

Workplace Adjustments**: Make reasonable adjustments to ensure our workplace is inclusive, accessible, and equitable for employees with disabilities or other needs.

Complaints and Grievances Procedure**: Implement a clear, accessible process for employees to raise concerns or complaints about discrimination, bullying, harassment, or any equality issues. All complaints will be treated with the utmost seriousness and investigated promptly and thoroughly.

Monitoring and Review

The effectiveness of this policy will be monitored continuously, with an annual review to assess its impact and effectiveness. Employee, client, and partner feedback will be integral to informing ongoing improvements.

Responsibility

Every member of About Trees Ltd. is responsible for contributing to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. The Directors hold overall responsibility for implementing this policy, with managers ensuring its application within their teams.

This policy has the full endorsement of the senior management of About Trees Ltd. and has been developed in alignment with best practices, including those outlined in the “Diversity and Inclusion: Strategy and Policy Guidance Advice.”

Conclusion

At About Trees Ltd., we believe that our strength is in the diversity and equality of our workforce. By adhering to the principles outlined in this policy, we commit to creating an environment where everyone is treated equitably, with respect, and where every individual has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

To read our other Policies including Working At Height, Wildlife and Ecology, Health and Safety and Insurance, please click here.

About Trees Ltd. Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Policy

Date: March 2024