It depends on what disease the effected tree has, some diseases spread by root to root contact, others through the air. Generally speaking healthy trees are well prepared to cope with attacks from diseases.
Do you have environmental policies?
about…trees strongly supports tree planting and encourages it on every contract. We have in-house tree planting schemes, we always use re-cycled paper and use e-communication as much as we can. Woodchips are re-cycled as are logs. We use Bio-oil in our chainsaws and try to use handsaws rather than chainsaws.
Can you replant a tree in the same place?
There may be a reason why the tree has been removed and the replanting in the same place may not be advisable. However we will happily replant a new tree in a suitable place in your garden,(at an extra cost).
Can I request to have wood for logging? How will you leave? Will you stack it?
We will happily leave you the wood for logging if asked to. We will endeavour to cut the logs into in large chunks for you to handle, they will be stacked near to where the tree was dismantled. If you would like to us to log and stack them this can also be arrange at an additional cost.
How do I pay?
You can pay by Debit/Credit card on site or securely over the telephone this may enable you to spread the cost on a 0% credit card or by cheque or cash upon completion of the contract. Whichever way suits you. Our preferred method, which is free and easy is an internet transfer via your online banking.
How will you leave my garden?
We will leave your garden as tidy as possible with little evidence of us being there. We will take the entire tree away and tidy by up by hand also remove most of the leaves by means of a blower. The lawn may have some brushed areas where we have drag large branches. Obviously, if the garden is very wet there may be areas of mud. We are registered Environment Agency waste carriers.
What insurance do you have? What does this cover?
about…trees has full Arboricultural Insurance with Public and Products Liability of £5 million and Employers Liability of £10 million which means we have every eventuality covered for your peace of mind. We are fully qualified with the relevant NPTC certificates and a NCH (arb) along with nearly 20 years practical experience. We are Technician status members of the Arboricultural Association (A.A.) grade TechArborA member number TE02523
High Winds in Kent – The Impact on Trees in Full Leaf and How to Protect Them
As Kent’s leading tree care company, About Trees Ltd., we are passionate about sharing our extensive knowledge about tree care. A topic that holds considerable relevance, particularly during the warmer months, is the impact of high winds on trees in full leaf.
High winds and summer storms in Kent can pose unique challenges to our trees. While winds can play a role in strengthening trees, they can also be a force of destruction, causing serious damage to trees in full leaf.
The most prominent issue with high winds during the summer in Kent is their unpredictable nature. Strong winds can cause even healthy trees to bend and sway, potentially leading to root failure, branch breakage, or even total tree failure. The problem is amplified when a tree is in full leaf – the leaves act like sails, increasing the tree’s surface area exposed to wind.
What’s more, high winds can lead to a phenomenon known as windthrow, where trees are uprooted entirely by the force of the wind. Windthrows are often a result of the saturated soils following heavy rainfall in Kent’s summers, which reduce the soil’s stability and grip on the tree roots. This phenomenon can be highly destructive, damaging property and causing injuries.
The risk factor is further increased when high winds coincide with heavy rainfall. Wet soils can destabilise trees, while the additional weight of water-laden leaves can further stress them. As such, it’s crucial to monitor weather forecasts and stay vigilant about potential storm threats.
We at About Trees Ltd., Kent’s professional arborists, understand these risks and provide preventative measures to help protect your trees. Regular pruning by trained arborists, like our team, can reduce the leaf area exposed to wind and help create a more streamlined structure. We also offer comprehensive tree surveys, assessing the stability of your trees considering factors such as species, health, age, and location.
Planting trees in groups or utilising windbreaks can also help reduce the impact of high winds. These strategies can buffer the trees, reducing wind speed and decreasing the chances of individual trees being uprooted.
Our team of certified professionals at About Trees Ltd. is dedicated to providing expert tree care in Kent. We aim to protect your trees from potential damage caused by high winds while ensuring their longevity and safety.
In conclusion, while high winds can pose a significant risk to some of our trees in full leaf, in Kent, there are numerous strategies to mitigate these risks. Regular maintenance and professional tree care is key to the health and safety of your trees.
Don’t wait for the high winds of summer to remind you of the importance of tree care. Contact About Trees Ltd., your trusted tree care company in Kent, today for a comprehensive tree health check. Let’s work together to ensure your trees are as prepared as they can be for the unusual challenges of the season.
Detecting the Early Warning Signs of Ash Dieback
Notice the dark section under my thumb and the “burnt” looking leaves, and then comes the crown dieback seen clearly in the photo on the right- this is typical
At About Trees Ltd., we understand the value of your ash trees in Kent (Fraxinus excelsior) and the importance of preserving their health and beauty while prioritising safety. Our professional tree care services are tailored to address the specific challenges posed by Ash Dieback, ensuring the longevity of your trees and the safety of your property. We’ve made a handy guide that will be available to download to help you out when diagnosing Ash Dieback, it’s been kept simple and easy to read for you.
Identifying Ash Dieback: Detect the Early Warning Signs
Ash Dieback, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, is a serious threat to the health and vitality of ash trees in Kent and the surrounding counties. It is crucial to be able to identify the early warning signs of this disease to take prompt action and mitigate its impact. By closely monitoring your ash trees, you can detect the following indicators of Ash Dieback:
1. Crown Dieback:
One of the primary symptoms of Ash Dieback is the progressive dieback of the crown. Initially, the upper branches show signs of withering and decline. As the disease progresses, more branches become affected, resulting in a sparse foliage appearance. Premature leaf loss and reduced canopy density are also common characteristics. Crown dieback signifies significant damage to the tree’s vascular system, hampering its ability to transport water and nutrients efficiently.
2. Diamond-shaped Lesions:
Ash trees afflicted by Ash Dieback often exhibit diamond*-shaped lesions on the bark of the trunk and branches. These lesions are caused by the invasion of the fungus and subsequent damage to the tree’s tissues. They may appear dark brown or purple and are typically accompanied by cracks or splits in the bark. The presence of these lesions indicates the active infection and further supports the diagnosis of Ash Dieback.
*typically, as nature does not want to be too predicable, these are not always diamond shaped.
3. Epicormic Growth:
In response to the stress caused by Ash Dieback, ash trees may exhibit epicormic growth. This phenomenon involves the development of new shoots from dormant buds on the main stem or branches. These shoots often appear weak, distorted, and discolored. Epicormic growth is the tree’s attempt to compensate for the loss of leaf area and impaired nutrient uptake due to the disease.
4. Crown Thinning and Dying Branches:
As Ash Dieback progresses, the tree’s crown continues to thin, and more branches succumb to the disease. Crown thinning is a consequence of the extensive damage to the tree’s vascular system and the inability to sustain a healthy canopy. Dying branches, starting from the top of the tree and progressing downwards, are a clear indication of the disease’s detrimental impact on the tree’s overall health and vigor.
Early detection of Ash Dieback is crucial for implementing appropriate management strategies and minimising the disease’s spread. If you observe any of these signs in your ash trees, it is vital to consult a professional arborist, such as the experts at About Trees Ltd., to assess the severity of the infection and develop a targeted treatment plan. Prompt action can significantly increase the chances of preserving the affected trees and protecting neighboring ash trees from the devastating effects of Ash Dieback.
By staying vigilant and understanding the early warning signs, you play a critical role in safeguarding the health and longevity of your ash trees. Together with the expertise of About Trees Ltd., we can combat Ash Dieback and ensure a thriving tree population for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Why Choose Us:
- Expert Arborists: Our team of certified arborists has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating Ash Dieback in Kent and the surrounding counties. We stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices to provide you with the most effective solutions.
- Comprehensive Services: From initial inspections to precise diagnoses and customised management plans, we offer a wide range of tree care services to address Ash Dieback and other tree-related issues.
- Advanced Techniques: We employ state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to ensure efficient and effective treatment. Our team is trained in the latest tree care methodologies to deliver superior results.
- Environmentally Friendly Approach: We prioritise sustainable tree care practices, employing methods that minimise the impact on the environment while effectively managing Ash Dieback. Our aim is to protect both your trees and the surrounding ecosystem.
- Customer Satisfaction: We are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. From the moment you contact us, you can expect clear communication, professional advice, and a commitment to meeting your tree care needs, with safety as our top priority.
Don’t forget
If you suspect that your ash trees are affected by Ash Dieback, look out for the following signs:
- Wilting or browning leaves
- Crown dieback
- Lesions on the bark
- Epicormic growth (shoots growing from the trunk or branches)
If you observe these symptoms, contact About Trees Ltd. immediately for a professional diagnosis and treatment plan.
Conclusion:
Don’t wait until it’s too late to address the threat of Ash Dieback in your ash trees in Kent and the surrounding counties. Trust About Trees Ltd.’s expertise and commitment to preserving your trees’ health and beauty while ensuring your safety and satisfaction. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and customised tree care plan.
The Importance of Choosing Native Trees: Enhancing Gardens and Commercial spaces
Introduction:
As a leading tree care company, we understand the vital role that trees play in creating thriving and sustainable environments. When it comes to replanting in gardens or commercial schemes, the choice of trees becomes crucial. In this blog, we will delve into the immense benefits of selecting native trees, exploring their impact on ecosystems and the wider environment. Additionally, we will highlight the significance of native shrubs and flowers. Under separate headings, we will present a comprehensive list of the top 10 native trees for replanting, providing insights into their growth habits, dimensions, and unique characteristics. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the wonders of native trees and their extraordinary contribution to our surroundings.
The Importance of Choosing Native Trees:
Native trees are the backbone of healthy ecosystems. They have evolved over time to thrive in specific regions, making them well-adapted to local climates, soils, and wildlife. By choosing native trees when replanting in gardens or commercial schemes, we ensure numerous benefits for the environment and our communities:
- Biodiversity and Habitat Conservation:
Native trees support biodiversity by providing habitat, food sources, and shelter for a wide range of wildlife. They have intricate relationships with native insects, birds, and mammals, contributing to the delicate balance of local ecosystems. By choosing native trees, we help preserve and restore biodiversity, creating healthier and more resilient environments. - Adaptation to Local Conditions:
Native trees have evolved to withstand local climate conditions, including temperature, rainfall patterns, and soil types. They are naturally suited to thrive in their specific regions, requiring less maintenance and resources. By choosing native trees, we ensure their ability to adapt to local conditions, resulting in healthier and more sustainable landscapes. - Ecosystem Services:
Native trees offer a multitude of ecosystem services. They improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. Native tree roots help prevent soil erosion, stabilize slopes, and improve water infiltration. Their canopies provide shade, reducing the urban heat island effect. Native trees also sequester carbon dioxide, mitigating climate change. By planting native trees, we maximize the benefits these trees provide to the environment and society. - Cultural and Heritage Value:
Native trees hold cultural and historical significance. They are deeply intertwined with local traditions, folklore, and identities. By planting native trees, we preserve our cultural heritage and strengthen our connection to the land. Native trees also contribute to the unique character and sense of place in a region, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and creating a distinctive atmosphere.
Native Trees: Top 10 Choices for Replanting:
- Oak (Quercus robur):
- Growth Habit: Broad, spreading crown with sturdy branches.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 30m, Spread: up to 20m.
- Standout Characteristics: Majestic presence, attractive acorns, and support for over 280 insect species.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Prefers well-drained soils, preferably slightly acidic to neutral. Best suited for open spaces, parks, or large gardens where it has ample room to grow.
- Beech (Fagus sylvatica):
- Growth Habit: Elegant, dense canopy with smooth silver-gray bark.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 25m, Spread: up to 20m.
- Standout Characteristics: Vibrant autumn foliage, supports a variety of wildlife, and often forms ancient woodland.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Thrives in fertile, well-drained soils. Can tolerate shade but performs best in full sunlight. Suitable for both urban and rural areas, including woodland planting and hedgerows.
- Silver Birch (Betula pendula):
- Growth Habit: Graceful, light canopy with distinctive silver-white bark.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 25m, Spread: up to 10m.
- Standout Characteristics: Delicate foliage, wildlife-friendly, and hosts over 300 insect species.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to various soil types, including well-drained and even poor soils. Prefers full sunlight and is well-suited for smaller gardens, parklands, or as an ornamental tree.
- Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris):
- Growth Habit: Conical shape with distinctive reddish-brown bark.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 35m, Spread: up to 10m.
- Standout Characteristics: Hardy, adaptable, provides nesting sites for birds, and is a symbol of Scotland’s forests.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils. Prefers full sunlight and is well-suited for large gardens, coastal areas, or open landscapes. Not ideal for compacted or waterlogged soils.
- Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia):
- Growth Habit: Compact, rounded crown with clusters of vibrant red berries.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 15m, Spread: up to 8m.
- Standout Characteristics: Berries attract birds, attractive spring blossoms, and rich folklore associations.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to a range of soil types, but prefers moist, well-drained conditions. Can tolerate partial shade but performs best in full sunlight. Suitable for small to medium-sized gardens and woodland edges.
- Field Maple (Acer campestre):
- Growth Habit: Rounded crown with green-yellow foliage turning to a beautiful orange in autumn.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 20m, Spread: up to 15m.
- Standout Characteristics: Ideal for urban environments, supports diverse wildlife, and is often used for hedgerows.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to various soil types, including clay and chalk soils. Tolerates partial shade but prefers full sunlight. Suitable for urban environments, hedges, or as a specimen tree.
- Wild Cherry (Prunus avium):
- Growth Habit: Broad, spreading crown with clusters of white flowers in spring.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 25m, Spread: up to 12m.
- Standout Characteristics: Showy blossoms, edible fruit, and provides nesting sites for birds.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soils. Prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Well-suited for parklands, woodland edges, or as an ornamental tree.
- Wild Service Tree (Sorbus torminalis):
- Growth Habit: Compact, rounded crown with distinctive lobed leaves.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 15m, Spread: up to 10m.
- Standout Characteristics: Rare and valuable tree, supports a wide range of wildlife, and produces small edible fruits known as “chequers.”
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Thrives in moist, well-drained soils, preferably loamy or sandy. Prefers full sunlight or partial shade. Suitable for woodland planting, parklands, or mixed hedgerows.
- Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus):
- Growth Habit: Distinctive pleated leaves, forming a dense and rounded crown.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 20m, Spread: up to 15m.
- Standout Characteristics: Beautiful autumn colors, ideal for hedging, and supports woodland flora and fauna.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to various soil types, including clay and chalk soils. Tolerates shade but prefers full sunlight. Suitable for hedges, woodland edges, or as a specimen tree in gardens.
- Yew (Taxus baccata):
- Growth Habit: Dense, dark-green needles and red berries.
- Mature Dimensions: Height: up to 20m, Spread: up to 15m.
- Standout Characteristics: Long-living, evergreen foliage, rich historical symbolism, and provides shelter for birds.
- Ideal Planting Conditions: Adaptable to a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Tolerates shade but prefers full sunlight. Suitable for formal gardens, hedging, or as an ornamental tree.
Conclusion:
Choosing native trees for replanting in gardens or commercial schemes is a decision that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Native trees contribute significantly to the overall health and sustainability of ecosystems. By supporting biodiversity, providing habitat for wildlife, and offering numerous environmental benefits, native trees play an essential role in creating a greener and more balanced world. Let’s work together to preserve our natural heritage. To learn more about native trees or to request a quote for our tree care services, contact us at info@abouttrees.co.uk or book a quote online at [insert Calendly link].
References:
- The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
- The Woodland Trust
- The Wildlife Trusts