This huge old beech tree stands in the grounds of a stately home in Douglas, and recently lost around 50% of its crown due to a fungal decay (Ganoderma australe) causing a massive branch to collapse under its own weight.
The owner of the tree wished to retain it, and therefore a severe crown reduction was performed to reduce a significant amount of weight from the remaining stem/leader and reduce the sail effect exerted by the wind. The amount of crown removed is not a standard procedure, and would never be recommend for a tree of this maturity, but in this case it was the only way in which the tree could be retained.
Please see the photos below. They are in sequence and can be navigated by pressing your left and right keys.
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- the massive wound clearly visible
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- a cross section of the fallen piece showing the fungus’ handy work
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- the fruiting body of the Ganoderma
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- the fallen piece
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- the speed line setup which was used to remove the majority of the crown
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- before
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- middle
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- more middle
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- even more middle
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- and after
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- both we and the customer were happy with the result
Veteran trees are a vital element to our local ecology as they provide both food and shelter for many species of insect, fungi, bird and even mammal, and therefore every effort must be taken to ensure they are retained.
To have your trees inspected for safety, or to have your veteran trees pruned and managed by us, please contact us to arrange a no obligation visit.
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