London Pollarding Techniques: A Comprehensive Guide to Tree Management
Key Takeaways
Pollarding is the practice of trimming back a tree’s central branches in winter, stimulating vigorous new growth and keeping trees in check, particularly in cities such as London.
Which was different from coppicing and which kept the main trunk and formed a pollard head from which vigorous, controllable new shoots grew.
Popularly pollarded trees are willow, poplar, lime, plane, ash and hornbeam, all of which accept ‘ruthless’ pruning and regrow effectively.
Key pollarding implements include Chainsaw, handsaws and PPE. Safety and organisation are key to a successful outcome.
Should be performed on a yearly to five-yearly basis and should be done in late winter or early spring when trees are inactive.
Always check local regulations, tree preservation orders, and consider hiring a qualified tree surgeon to ensure best practice compliance withinLondon’s urban setting.
Tree pollarding methods involve hacking the tops of trees back to limit their height and appearance. In the UK, we pollard trees that line urban streets, parks, and rural hedgerows. This technique manages growth, protects trees near roads and provides for wildlife. Popular species for pollarding are willow, lime, and plane. The main body will include step-by-step methods, timing and local tips for optimum results.
What is Tree Pollarding?
Tree pollarding is a technique that prunes the upper branches of a tree back to the trunk, usually in the winter when the tree is dormant. By lopping off the primary branches, pollarding constrains the tree’s dimensions while promoting thick, bushy regrowth every year. Unlike coppicing, which removes growth at ground level, pollarding retains the trunk and prunes only the upper parts, so the tree remains upright. With repeated cuts, the tree develops a “pollard head,” a fat knuckle at the end of each cut limb from which multiple new shoots sprout. As they get older, these heads get very big; that’s another characteristic of old pollarded trees.
Why would you pollard? It’s commonly employed to contain trees to a safe and controllable height in towns, for example, hedging avenues with plane trees or limes. It facilitates the annual harvest of wood or foliage, as with hornbeam, which yields a leafy crown ideal for fuel or animal feed. In ancient woodlands, the method is prized for its conservation value. Ancient pollard heads decay to create hollows that serve as nesting places for insects, birds and bats. This benefits local wildlife, while the thin, open canopy allows more sunlight to filter to the ground, creating space for wildflowers and other plants.
The table below shows different pollarding techniques and their benefits:
Technique | Description | Main Benefit |
|---|---|---|
Traditional | Cutting all main limbs back to the same point each cycle | Maintains clear structure |
Staggered | Cutting some branches each year, not all at once | Reduces stress, keeps shape |
High Pollard | Pruning higher up, above head height | Protects regrowth from animals |
Low Pollard | Pruning just above ground level (uncommon in UK) | Dense regrowth, easier harvest |
Why Pollard Your Trees?
Why pollard your trees? When a tree is pollarded, it responds by pushing out lots of new shoots. This maintains the vitality of the tree and can enhance longevity. Indeed, some pollarded trees in the UK have lasted for centuries, demonstrating how this technique can extend a tree’s life. For fruit trees, pollarding can even increase the number of spurs on the branches, so there is more fruit over the years.
Why pollard your trees? Once pollarded a few times, the tree develops a round knobbly head, with a new spurt of slim shoots every spring. It makes for parks and gardens that have their own identity, particularly in winter when shapes are most stark. It is a practical and attractive effect, marrying tradition with contemporary garden requirements.
London’s Best Pollarding Candidates
Pollarding works well in London only if you choose trees that cope well with regular cutting and regrow. Deciduous trees are largely selected because they can produce fresh shoots after their principal stems are removed. This regrowth keeps them healthy and strong, even after years of shaping. Trees that produce lots of epicormic shoots, which are new growth from old wood, are most suited to pollarding as they bounce back each time.
Common species for pollarding in London include:
London Plane (Platanus x hispanica)
Common Lime (Tilia x europaea)
Willow (Salix species)
Poplar (Populus species)
Ash (Fraxinus excelsior)
Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)
Plane
Elm
Oak (Quercus robur)
Beech (Fagus sylvatica)
Maple (Acer species)
Mulberry
London Plane and Common Lime emerge as favourite options, frequently lining urban streets. Being able to quickly regrow and resculpt themselves, they are ideal for busy urban sites. Pollarding these trees keeps them in size and prevents their roots from damaging pavements or sewers. Weaker-wooded trees, such as poplar and some willows, must be pollarded to prevent them becoming a danger as they mature.
A handful of evergreens like Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus gunnii) will pollard, but not as easily as deciduous trees. Yew (Taxus spp.) and Holly (Ilex spp.) are seldom selected because they do not take kindly to hard pruning.
Some fruit trees, such as apple and pear, can be summer pollarded for shaping and increased fruit. Local climate, soil, and pollution levels all contribute to which species flourish post-pollarding, so suitable trees are crucial for London’s parks and streets.
The Art of Pollarding Techniques
Simple, solid implements suit. Pruning saws, loppers, and sharp secateurs provide clean cuts. Always wear gloves, a helmet, stout boots, and eye protection. Use a stable ladder if the canopy is high, and never work alone if you can help it. Safety first. Falling branches and unstable footing are not to be trifled with.
Start by checking the tree’s health and size. Look for decay, weak limbs or signs of disease.
Plan where to cull, selecting vigorous vertical shoots as the new pollarding areas. Avoid stubs that will rot.
Work with clean, sharp tools. Make cuts just above the old pollard head or at the selected point. Choose a crisp angle to allow water to run off.
Wear your full safety kit and ensure ladders are secured.
Clear branches as you go to keep the site clear.
Once cut, check for any wounds needing care.
Pollarding Trees in London
Working with experts ensures pollarding adheres to local statutes and best practice. London boroughs have tough guidelines and can issue tree preservation orders (TPOs). The table below provides a handy guide to local rules and when to check for TPOs.
The Pollarding Calendar
Conclusion
It is how the trees of London stay orderly, safe and robust. Done properly, it rejuvenates trees and allows mature streets to retain their greenery. Every corner of the city, from Hackney’s parks to Islington’s squares, has trees that require a little TLC. Timing stays key: pick late winter or early spring for best results. What are we talking about? A neatly kept London plane or lime tree stands proud, trim and vigorous for decades. Got a tree that needs a trim or want to green your street? Give it a go or hire in the experts. London’s trees are generous, so give them some love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tree pollarding?
Tree pollarding is a cutting technique. It consists of regularly cutting back branches to a predetermined height, typically every other year, to promote new growth and manage the size of the tree.
Why is pollarding important in London?
Pollarding is crucial in London for managing trees in urban spaces. It maintains tree health, eliminates overhanging branches and lowers risk near roads and buildings.
Which tree species in London are best suited for pollarding?
London planes, limes, willows and hornbeams take well to pollarding. These species are found in parks and lining streets throughout the city.
When is the best time to pollard trees in the UK?
Pollarding is best done late winter to early spring in the UK. Trees are dormant, which reduces stress and the risk of disease.
How often should pollarding be done?
Pollarding takes place every one to five years. How often depends on the tree species and the shape you want.
Does pollarding harm my tree?
If performed appropriately, pollarding does no damage to trees. It prolongs their life, prevents disease and protects them in cities.
Can I pollard my tree myself or should I hire a professional?
The best bet is to enlist the help of a qualified tree surgeon, particularly for older or larger trees. This ensures the right technique and safety kit are used.
