Tree removal vs pruning: which do you need?

Not every problem tree needs to come out. Often the right prune fixes the issue and keeps a valuable tree in your garden. Other times, removal really is the only sensible option. Here is how to think about it.

When pruning is usually enough

• Branches overhanging the roof or gutters
• Deadwood that needs clearing for safety
• A canopy that has grown too dense or too low
• Limbs rubbing the house or blocking light
• General shaping and maintenance

A healthy, well-structured tree that is simply in need of a tidy-up is almost always worth keeping. Good pruning to the Australian Standard improves its health and safety without spoiling its shape.

When removal is the better call

• The tree is dead or dying
• There is serious structural failure, like major cracks or rot
• The roots are damaging foundations, pipes or paving
• The tree is the wrong species in the wrong spot and will always be a problem
• It is a genuine and ongoing hazard

Not sure? Ask first

This is exactly the kind of thing we are happy to give an honest opinion on. We would rather save a good tree than remove it, and we will tell you straight which way we would go. Text us a photo and we will let you know.

See our tree removal and tree pruning services for more on each.