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Writer's pictureTree Services Wicklow

What is Tree Pollarding and where did it originate?

In the world of arboriculture, there exist various techniques to manage and shape trees, each with its own unique purpose. One such technique that has always fascinated me is tree pollarding—an age-old practice that has been employed for centuries to promote sustainable tree growth, manage vegetation, and maintain aesthetic landscapes. In this blog, let's delve into the art of tree pollarding, exploring its history, methodology, and the many benefits it offers in today's world, with a particular focus on our expertise at Tree Services Wicklow.

  1. Understanding Tree Pollarding:

Tree pollarding is a pruning technique that involves removing the upper branches and stems of a tree to a predetermined point, leaving only the main trunk and a few significant branches known as "pollard heads." These pollard heads are then allowed to regrow, creating a dense network of new growth, which is later pruned during subsequent pollarding cycles.

  1. Historical Significance:

The practice of tree pollarding has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. Across Europe, pollarded trees were traditionally found in hedgerows, village boundaries, and woodlands. They served various purposes, including providing a sustainable source of firewood, fodder for livestock, and material for crafts and construction.

  1. The Methodology and Our Expertise at Tree Services Wicklow:

At Tree Services Wicklow, we have honed our methodology for tree pollarding to ensure exceptional results and the health of the trees we care for. Our team of skilled arborists brings years of experience and expertise to the practice. Here are the key steps involved in our approach:

a. Timing: We conduct pollarding during late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant, reducing the risk of disease transmission and ensuring optimal healing.

b. Initial Pruning: We meticulously remove all branches and stems above the predetermined pollard head level, making careful cuts at nodes or collars to promote proper healing and growth.

c. Regrowth: Following pollarding, the tree responds by producing vigorous new shoots from the pollard heads. Our team expertly manages these shoots during subsequent cycles to ensure healthy and controlled regrowth.

d. Maintenance Cycles: Depending on the tree species and management objectives, we recommend and carry out pollarding at regular intervals, tailored to each tree's needs. This helps maintain the desired size, shape, and growth habit while promoting longevity and health.

  1. Benefits of Tree Pollarding:

Tree pollarding, performed by our team at Tree Services Wicklow, offers several advantages, making it a valuable technique in modern arboriculture:

a. Size Control: Pollarding allows us to effectively manage the height and spread of trees, making it a practical solution for trees in confined spaces like urban areas or near power lines.

b. Longevity and Health: By removing older branches and stimulating new growth, pollarding helps rejuvenate trees, promoting their long-term health and vitality. We prioritize the well-being of the trees throughout the pollarding process.

c. Aesthetic Appeal: Pollarded trees, shaped with expertise by our team, possess a unique and distinctive appearance that enhances the visual appeal of parks, gardens, and landscapes. Even during the dormant winter months, they provide an architectural element.

d. Sustainable Resource: We recognize the historical use of pollarded trees as a sustainable resource for firewood and timber. In today's world, pollarding can still provide a renewable supply of biomass for eco-friendly energy and other uses.

e. Wildlife Habitat: Well-managed pollarded trees create diverse habitats, offering nesting sites for birds, shelter for small mammals, and food sources for insects. They contribute to biodiversity and support the local ecosystem.


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