Crown Reduction & Pruning
Is your tree blocking the light, growing too close to the house, or just getting too big? We'll reduce its height and spread without ruining its shape, so you get your garden back without losing the tree.
What to expect
Crown reduction is the most common job we do. It means shortening the branches back to natural growth points so the tree gets smaller but keeps its shape and stays healthy. It's completely different from topping (which damages the tree and looks awful). We prune every tree to BS 3998 standards, the industry benchmark for proper tree work in the UK. Our climbers are all NPTC qualified.
There are plenty of reasons you might need a crown reduction. Maybe the tree is blocking light to your garden or your neighbour's. Maybe it's growing too close to the house, interfering with cables, or just becoming too big for its spot. Reducing the crown also makes the tree less likely to come down in a storm. We work on all the common species you'll find in Sussex and Surrey: Oak, Beech, Ash, Lime, Sycamore, Horse Chestnut, and big conifers. Each one responds differently to pruning, and we adjust our approach accordingly.
If your tree is protected by a TPO or you're in a Conservation Area, you'll need council approval before any pruning. We handle the application for you, including the specification (e.g. "reduce crown by 2 metres in height and 1.5 metres in spread"), photographs, and supporting information. If a crown reduction isn't the right approach for your tree, we'll tell you and suggest the best alternative, whether that's crown thinning, crown lifting, or deadwood removal.
How It Works
We come and look at the tree
Antony visits to see the tree, understand what you're trying to achieve (more light, less worry about branches, a neighbour issue) and recommend the right approach.
We check for protections
We check whether the tree has a TPO or you're in a Conservation Area. If you need council approval, we handle the application for you.
You get a clear quote
A written quote tells you exactly what we'll do, e.g. "reduce crown by 2m in height and 1.5m in spread". Plain English, no jargon, no hidden costs.
We do the work
Our qualified climbers reduce the crown using proper pruning cuts that let the tree heal naturally. We never use spikes on live trees. They damage the bark for no good reason.
We clean up and go
All branches and waste are cleared from your garden. We protect your lawn and borders during the work, and leave the site tidy. Everything is recycled.
What's Included
Crown Reduction: Common Questions
What is the difference between crown reduction and topping?
Crown reduction shortens branches back to natural growth points, so the tree heals properly and keeps growing in a balanced way. Topping just hacks branches off at random points. It damages the tree, causes weak regrowth, and actually makes it less safe. No reputable arborist will top a tree. We prune everything to BS 3998 standards.
How often should a tree be crown-reduced?
It depends on the species. Fast growers like Willow or Eucalyptus may need doing every two to three years. Slower species like Oak or Beech might only need it every five to ten years. We'll let you know when your tree is likely to need attention again.
Will reducing the crown damage my tree?
Not when it's done properly. We never remove more than about 30% of the live crown in one go. Taking off too much puts the tree under stress. Our arborists know how much each species can handle and will advise you before we start.
Can you reduce a tree with a TPO?
Yes, but you need council approval first. We handle the whole application: specification, photographs, reasons for the work. Most routine TPO applications are approved within six to eight weeks.
Get a Free Quote
Send us a few photos on WhatsApp for a quick estimate, or fill in the form and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.
Tell us a bit about it
Don't worry if you're not sure on the details. Antony will come and have a look.
Crown Reduction Near You
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