4 min read
Pruning a large tree is skilled work, usually carried out at height by a climber or from a platform, and priced on the time, access and complexity involved rather than a flat rate. As a general UK guide, pruning a large tree typically costs more than routine garden maintenance but less than a full removal.
Below we explain the main types of pruning and what pushes the price up, so you can make sense of your quotes.
Types of pruning and how they differ
'Pruning' covers several different jobs, and the type you need affects the cost:
- Crown reduction, reducing the overall height and spread, more involved and usually the priciest.
- Crown thinning, selectively removing branches to let light through, moderate.
- Crown lifting, removing lower branches to raise clearance, often the quickest.
- Deadwooding, removing dead or dangerous limbs for safety.
What affects the cost
The main factors a tree surgeon considers when pricing pruning work are:
- The size and height of the tree, and how much is being removed.
- Access, whether a climber, a platform or machinery is needed.
- Proximity to buildings, wires and neighbouring gardens.
- The species and how it responds to pruning.
- Clearing and recycling the arisings afterwards.
Good pruning is worth doing properly
It can be tempting to choose on price alone, but poor pruning, like indiscriminately 'topping' a tree, can damage it and cause bigger, costlier problems down the line. Sound pruning by an experienced team keeps a tree healthy and safe, and looks far better.
We're happy to advise on the right approach for your tree and give you a free, no-obligation quote.
Related service
Crown Reduction & Pruning
View serviceThis guide is general information, not legal or professional advice, and details can change. For anything specific to your situation, get in touch and we'll be glad to help.