By removing any dead, diseased or overgrown branches, the pollarding process helps to reduce the amount of work that needs to be done to maintain your trees in the future. This includes eliminating the need for pruning and reducing the risk of pest infestations. The removal of lower branches can also help prevent injury from falling branches during storms.

In addition to offering a complete tree pollarding service, we can provide advice and assistance on how best to care for your trees after they have been serviced. Through careful selection of plants and regular maintenance regimes, you can ensure your trees will continue to thrive for years to come. 

The cost of pollarding a tree can vary greatly based on a number of factors. These include the size of the tree, its species, its health condition, and the complexity of the work involved. Furthermore, geographical location and local market rates can also impact the cost. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from £350 to £1,000 per tree. However, it's important to remember that each tree and each situation is unique. Glasgow Trees can provide a free, no-obligation quotation after a site visit and a thorough assessment of your tree's conditions and requirements. Our pricing is transparent and competitive, reflecting the high level of service and care we provide. Ultimately, the cost of pollarding is a valuable investment into the long-term health and beauty of your trees and landscape.

Pollarding or to pollard is an ancient method of tree surgery to control a size of a tree, and even dates back to Roman times. This process can be desired for many reasons including, encourage new growth, keep trees a required size, to harvest the branches for animal fodder or be used for various crafts like basket weaving or create fencing.

​Certain trees are cut back this way to stop them shading other vegetation or keep them downsized because they could become a hazard to local electricity or telecom cabling .

It is wise to be choosy about which trees you decide to cut back using this method, we will always advise if we feel that the tree you have selected is not suited to this type of surgery.

While pollarding has numerous benefits, it's important to be aware of potential drawbacks. Firstly, not all tree species respond well to pollarding. Some trees may struggle to recover, leading to potential health issues. Secondly, the initial pollarding process can dramatically alter the tree's appearance, which might not be aesthetically pleasing to some. Moreover, if not done properly, pollarding can expose the tree to diseases and pests. Finally, pollarding is a long-term commitment as it needs to be regularly maintained, usually every few years, which can add to overall tree care costs. Hence, it's important to consider these factors and consult a professional arborist before deciding to pollard a tree.

While both topping and pollarding involve removing a significant portion of a tree's branches, their execution and outcomes are quite different. Topping indiscriminately removes large branches, leaving stubs and lateral branches. This technique is generally discouraged because it can lead to poor tree health, decay, and unattractive regrowth. On the other hand, pollarding is a more controlled, selective process where branches are cut back to a consistent, predetermined height. This promotes a dense head of foliage and branches. Pollarding, when done correctly, is less likely to harm the tree, and can contribute to longevity and aesthetic appeal. However, it is essential to note that not all tree species are suitable for pollarding, and professional arborist advice should always be sought before undertaking this procedure.

Pollarding does not directly stop root growth. The technique primarily involves trimming the branches and crown of a tree, not the roots. Furthermore, the growth of a tree's roots is inherently linked to its overall health and growth, not strictly to whether it is pollarded. However, by limiting the size of the tree's crown, pollarding may indirectly influence the development of the root system. When a tree's crown is reduced, less energy is generated through photosynthesis, which could potentially slow root growth. However, this effect is typically minimal and temporary, as the tree will usually return to its normal growth patterns after recovery. Always consult a professional arborist to understand the specific impacts of pollarding on your tree species.