Tree replacement

A great many of the trees we are asked to fell were simply the wrong choice for the spot — a forest conifer planted three metres from a bungalow, a willow put in over a drain run, a leylandii hedge that was never going to stop at two metres. Taking it out solves the problem. Putting something better in solves it permanently.

We take the old tree down, grind or lift the stump, dig out the grindings and backfill with proper topsoil rather than replanting into a bed of rotting chip. Then a replacement goes in that suits the space it actually has: the right eventual height, the right root behaviour near drains and foundations, and something that earns its place — blossom, autumn colour, or berries for the birds.

Stock comes from a grower we know rather than a pallet outside a supermarket. That means we can get the species and size you actually want, it has been grown in this climate, and it has not spent three weeks drying out on a forecourt.

Fair questions

Can I plant in the same spot?

Yes, once the stump and grindings are out and the hole is backfilled with topsoil. Planting straight into grindings starves the new tree of nitrogen and it will sulk for years.

What should I replace it with?

Depends on how much room there really is, how wet the ground gets and what you want from it. We will suggest two or three that suit rather than selling you whatever is in stock.

How big a tree can you put in?

Semi-mature standards are usually the sweet spot — big enough to look like something immediately, small enough to establish well. Bigger is possible with the crane.

Do I have to replace it?

Sometimes, yes. Consent to fell a protected tree often comes with a replanting condition attached. We handle that as part of the application.