At a property in Norton, Malton, our team was tasked with removing a large Beech tree and a Horse Chestnut tree. Both trees displayed severe signs of decay, posing a significant risk to nearby structures, including a garage and a neighboring house. The Beech tree, in particular, was causing structural damage to the garage, making its removal a priority for the client’s safety and property preservation.

Challenges and Approach

The removal of the Beech tree required meticulous planning due to its overhang above the garage. Using advanced rigging techniques and controlled felling of the main stem, we ensured the tree was dismantled safely without causing any damage.

The decay in both trees was extensive, further justifying the need for their removal. Once felled, the full extent of the internal decay confirmed the potential hazards they posed.

Timber Removal

To clear the site efficiently, we utilized a timber lorry alongside an excavator equipped with a grab attachment for loading. This ensured that all timber was promptly removed, leaving the site tidy and ready for future use.

Our apprach to this these large tree removals prevented further damage to the property and eliminated a serious safety risk. By acting decisively, the client can now enjoy peace of mind knowing their home and garage are no longer at risk from these hazardous trees.

The post Removal of a Large Beech Tree and Horse Chestnut in Norton, Malton appeared first on DRL Tree Care.

Over the Christmas period, DRL Tree Care undertook the challenging removal of 17 large pine trees at an NHS unit in York. This complex job required precise planning and execution, with 44 tons of timber safely removed from the site.

Project Details

The trees were situated in a high-risk area, with their excessive lean causing them to overhang hospital wards housing vulnerable patients. Any potential tree failure posed a significant threat of casualties and severe structural damage. Due to the location, these big tree removals involved climbing and rigging techniques to ensure safety and avoid damage to the surrounding buildings and ground-based obstacles.

Challenges and Solutions

• Restricted Timeline: The work was completed during the Christmas period, a time when safety and precision were paramount.
• Climbing and Rigging: Given the proximity to buildings and sensitive areas, manual climbing and rigging were essential for controlled dismantling.
• Approval Process: After a year of extensive reports and navigating felling application issues, council approval for the removal was finally granted, emphasizing the necessity of this operation.

Outcome

The removal of these dangerous trees eliminated a significant risk to the hospital, ensuring the safety of patients, staff, and the facility. The job was completed efficiently, with all timber removed from the site and the area left clean and secure.

This project highlights DRL Tree Care’s expertise in managing high-risk tree removals in sensitive environments. With safety as the top priority, the team delivered a successful solution for a potentially hazardous situation.

The post Large-Scale Pine Tree Removal at NHS Unit in York appeared first on DRL Tree Care.

To remove the hedge efficiently, we utilized an excavator with a grapple and a large wood chipper. This machinery allowed us to dismantle the hedge in a timely manner, with branches fed directly into the chipper for quick processing. This method significantly reduced the physical strain on our team while minimizing disruption to the surrounding area. Once the hedge was removed, the stumps were fully ground out, leaving a clean and level base ready for the next phase of the project.

Instant Hedging: A Practical and Fast Solution

One of the primary concerns for the client was maintaining the privacy and screening provided by the Leylandii hedge. While removing overgrown hedges can significantly improve space and aesthetics, it can leave a property exposed. To address this, the client chose instant Beech hedging as a replacement—a practical solution that offers immediate results.

Unlike traditional hedging plants that can require years to grow into an effective screen, instant hedging is supplied at a mature height (1.8 meters in this case). This eliminates the lengthy establishment period and ensures an instant barrier, making it an ideal choice for those who need quick results without compromising on appearance.

Beech hedging, in particular, is a popular option due to its year-round appeal. Its leaves remain on the branches throughout winter, providing consistent privacy and a natural aesthetic. Additionally, Beech is highly adaptable and durable, making it well-suited to a variety of soil types and conditions.

The Importance of Aftercare

While instant hedging offers immediate benefits, planting mature hedging requires dedicated aftercare to ensure its long-term success. Mature plants are more susceptible to transplant shock and need regular attention during the first few years to establish their root systems. Proper watering is critical, particularly during dry periods, as the root systems adjust to their new environment.

Additionally, applying a layer of mulch around the base of the hedging helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Pruning should be done carefully to encourage healthy growth and maintain the desired shape without over-stressing the plants. For clients investing in instant hedging, a comprehensive aftercare plan is essential to protect the investment and ensure the plants thrive for years to come.

Seamless Transition from Leylandii to Beech

The supply and planting of the instant Beech hedging were expertly organized by DRL Tree Care, ensuring a seamless transition from the overgrown Leylandii to a fresh and functional boundary. The result is a beautiful, natural screen that restores privacy while enhancing the property’s overall appearance.

For those considering hedge removal, instant hedging is an excellent solution, providing immediate results and long-term benefits with the right aftercare.

The post Large Leylandii Hedge Removal in Flaxton, York appeared first on DRL Tree Care.

Tree removals in sensitive locations require extra care and precision, perhaps none more so than working over old and delicate gravestones, things that simply can’t be replaced. A recent job involved the removal of a large Cedar tree from a historic graveyard in York city. The tree’s size and location posed difficult challenges for even the most competent of tree surgery teams. This Cedar tree removal in York called for meticulous planning and execution, using state-of-the-art rigging equipment and techniques to ensure no damage occurred to the site’s irreplaceable monuments.

The Challenge

Cedar trees are known for their large, heavy stem wood. This particular tree stood in a confined area surrounded by gravestones and other delicate structures. Due to the tight space and the nature of the site, every piece of the tree required careful control during the removal process. Another hazard to contend with is that Cedar branches can be brittle, which increases the risk of small branches snapping during rigging. If a crane were to be employed this can help mitigate this problem as it enables smooth lifting of limbs. However, when rigging, in some situations there can be a certain amount of swinging of the limbs, which can be enough to break off smaller branches and twigs.

Key challenges included:

1. Tight Space with Sensitive Surroundings – The graveyard was filled with gravestones, making it crucial to avoid any accidental damage while dismantling the tree.
2. Brittle Wood – Cedar branches can be prone to snapping, which meant extra care was needed during the rigging process to prevent smaller branches from breaking unexpectedly.
3. Controlled Felling – Each section of the tree had to be lowered precisely into a very tight drop zone.

The Process

The Cedar tree was successfully removed with no damage. This was achieved through a combination of protective measures, advanced rigging techniques, efficient communication, and team work. Great care was taken to ensure no damage was done to the surrounding gravestones, or the graveyard itself.

• Protection and Safety Measures
  Before any work began wooden frameworks were erected around the most vulnerable gravestones. These were primarily designed to deflect any small limbs that might fall unexpectedly during the rigging process. With these relatively simple control measures in place, we could proceed with a greater level of confidence, knowing the grave markers were shielded from any potential impact.
• Rigging and Sectional Felling
  Given the tree’s size and brittle nature of Cedar wood, we used a combination of rigging blocks, pulleys, and lowering devices to gain as much control over the descent of falling branches. Essentially this advanced rigging allowed us to smooth the fall and reduce violent action that may cause breakages of smaller branches. Additional rigging lines were used to provide maximum control, enabling the team to safely maneuver lowered limbs into the desired space.
• Managing Brittle Cedar Wood
  With control measures already in place, all that remained was to be mindful of the brittle nature of Cedar. This is where our team’s experience came into play, allowing us to anticipate and manage any potential issues.
• Final Clean-Up
  After the tree was safely removed, we carefully dismantled the protective framework and cleared the site of all arising. The job was completed with no damage to the graveyards or surrounding area.

The Outcome

I can honestly say that working around gravestones is probably my least favourite aspect of tree work. However, it does present unique challenges to overcome and a chance to further hone the overall team’s skill. Thanks to our careful planning and execution, this large Cedar tree was safely removed, once again showcasing our ability to handle delicate tree removals in even the most challenging and sensitive environments.

The post Removal of a Large Cedar Tree from a Graveyard in York appeared first on DRL Tree Care.

DRL Tree Care are always prepared to respond to emergencies, especially where public safety is at risk. Recently we were called to York hospital during strong winds. A large lime tree was showing signs of the root plate lifting so it was given urgent priority. Nearby trees had already been damaged by the winds, with one causing damage to a parked car. Given the high footfall and vehicle traffic around the hospital, it was essential to remove the tree immediately to make the area safe for public use, as well as remove the fallen debris and inspect the other trees in the vicinity for damage.

The Challenge

The lime tree was located in an area near car parking and pathways trafficked by hospital staff, patients, and visitors. The lifting root plate was clear indication that the tree’s stability was compromised. With more high winds forecasted, there was a significant risk of the tree falling.

Key concerns included:

1. Public Safety – The hospital grounds had a high volume of foot traffic, making safety our top priority.
2. Emergency Response – As this was an emergency call-out, the tree needed to be felled quickly and efficiently to prevent any further risk of damage or injury.
3. Restricted Space – The tree was in close proximity to parked cars, buildings, and pedestrian walkways, meaning the felling and clean-up process had to be carefully controlled.

The Process

Given the urgent nature of the job, our team responded immediately to the request for assistance. As we were already carrying out tree surgery in York, we were able to be on-site within a short time frame and assess what needed doing. Safety measures were quickly put in place to cordon off the area of the compromised tree and control pedestrian traffic whilst the emergency tree removal was carried out.

• Site Assessment and Safety Precautions
  Upon arrival, our first step was to assess the condition of the tree and the surrounding area. With the tree showing significant lifting at the root plate and additional damage from the winds, we knew immediate action was required. To ensure the safety of the public, we cordoned off the surrounding area, redirecting foot traffic and securing the nearby parking area to prevent any accidents.
• Emergency Tree Felling
  With safety measures in place, our team swiftly began the felling process. The tree was in a relatively open space that allowed the tree to be felled from the ground. Given the urgency, our team worked efficiently to minimize disruption and complete the job as quickly as possible.
• Post-Job Clean-Up
  Once the tree was safely felled, we cleared the site of all debris to ensure the area was safe for hospital staff and visitors. This area of the hospital grounds was restored to normal with minimal downtime, allowing the parking areas and pathways to be reopened promptly.

Thanks to the diligent hospital staff who were quick to report the hazardous tree, and the rapid response of our team, no further damage occurred and the hospital grounds were made safe once again. This project highlights our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergency situations.

At DRL Tree Care, safety is our priority. We have the expertise and experience to handle urgent tree removals, whether it’s an emergency call-out or scheduled maintenance.

The post Emergency Lime Tree Removal at York Hospital appeared first on DRL Tree Care.

Tree removals often involve unique challenges, especially when dealing with restricted access and potential hazards/obstacles. One such recent job involved the removal of a large lime tree from a residential property in Norton, Malton. The tree was overhanging a river, wall, and various shrubs, and with limited access, this project required precision, control, and the expertise of a skilled and experienced team of tree surgeons.

The Challenge

The lime tree, which stood at approximately 60ft wasn’t huge by any means, but its location in a confined area with restricted access made the option of using a crane or other mechanised tree removal machinery impossible. In addition to this, part of the tree extended over a nearby river and wall, which increased the risk of damage to both the property and the surrounding environment. Of course, the last thing we wanted was to get us or our equipment wet, therefore we needed a solid plan in order to dismantle the tree in a safe and efficient manner.

Our primary objectives were:

1. Safe Sectional Felling – The tree needed to be dismantled in small sections due to its location, and the pieces had to be carefully lowered to avoid any impact on the riverbank or wall.
2. Precision Removal in a Confined Space – Without crane access, we had to rely on climbing and rigging to get the tree down safely.

The Process

Even though this job posted several challenges, it was carried out smoothly within one day, Here’s how we we did it:

• Climbing and Rigging Setup
  The first order of the day was to set our climbing and rigging lines. We also took this opportunity to remove some of the smaller limbs and epicormic growth to improve the efficiency of the rigging. In addition to setting a main rigging line and block, we also used a second line to control the direction of the lowered pieces, in essence redirecting the limbs clear of the wall and shrubs below.
• Section Felling and Controlled Lowering
  Using precise and controlled cuts and rigging techniques, the stem was cleared of all major branches till only the stem was remaining. This was then cut down in sections and lowered clear of the wall where it could be safely removed from the site.
• Final Clean-up
  As ever, the most important part of the job, and the first thing the customer notices, is the clean-up. Most of the debris had been contained due to using controlled rigging to set everything down in one area. This made raking up and making good a reasonably simple task. The property was left in pristine condition with no damage to the garden, wall, or riverbank.

The Outcome

We successfully removed the lime tree in Norton in a single day, well within the allotted time frame and budget. The garden was left in imaculate condition and with no damage to the property the client was delighted with the professional care and service that went into the removal.

The post Safe Removal of a Large Lime Tree in Norton, Malton appeared first on DRL Tree Care.

At DRL Tree Care, we pride ourselves on our ability to tackle challenging big tree removal projects, and the recent removal of a large beech tree from a private residence in Coxwold is a testament to our expertise and dedication to providing specialist tree removal services. This large beech tree posed unique challenges due to its size, location, and limited access, but our experienced team was up to the task.

The Challenge

The mature beech tree in question stood proudly in the client’s property attaining a height of approximately 80ft and with considerable mass in terms of the amount of heavy timber within the structure. It was situated in a landlocked area, with no access for cranes or large machinery which would have made the removal less labour intensive. The property’s surrounding landscape featured well-maintained hedges, shrubs, flower beds, and gravestones, meaning any damage had to be avoided. This was no ordinary job—the tree’s significant size, dense structure, and lack of direct access made it one of the most complex tree removals we’ve ever undertaken.

Assessment and Planning

Before any work began, we performed a thorough site and risk assessment. The absence of crane access and the delicate nature of the property meant we needed to plan every step meticulously. Our main concerns were:

1. Minimising Damage to the Property – The surrounding lawn, flower beds, and landscaped areas had to be protected.
2. Safe Removal in Limited Space – Given the landlocked nature of the tree, the usual preferred crane-assisted removal wasn’t an option. Everything had to be lowered down carefully to avoid any risk of property damage or injury.

To protect the property and facilitate the removal or the larger timber, we placed large wooden boards over the lawn and garden to minimise potential damage from falling debris and equipment movement. This ensured that once the job was done, the garden would remain as close to the condition we found it in, although the sheer size of this tree governed the practicality of that to a certain extent.

The Process

Removing the beech tree was no small feat, and the entire process spanned three days—longer than any other single tree removal project we’ve handled. Here’s how we did it:

• Day 1: Preparing the Site
  The first part of day 1 was spent setting up the site. We placed heavy-duty boards over the grass. Once the prep work was complete, we began sectionally removing the tree from the top down. Given the tree’s size, each branch had to be carefully cut and lowered to the ground using controlled rigging to ensure safety and limiting any damage.
• Day 2: Continuing Breaking Down the Main Sections
  On the second day, we continued the controlled dismantling process, working through the thick branches and finally tackling the larger sections of the trunk. Without the assistance of a crane, each piece had to be lowered carefully using a combination of ropes and pulleys.
• Day 3: Timber Removal and Clean-up
  The final day was mostly spent dismantling and removing the heaviest timber. A mini skid steer was brought in to haul away the logs in as large pieces as we were able to rig/cut, therefore making the process more efficient. Thanks to the protective boards, the grass remained intact (although a little compressed) despite the weight of the equipment. Once the tree was fully removed, our team conducted a thorough clean-up, leaving the property spotless.

The Outcome

After three days very hard, careful work, the beech tree was successfully removed without any damage to the property. Despite being one of the longest tree removal operations we have carried out, the job was completed on schedule. Our client was extremely satisfied with the care and attention given to both the tree removal and the protection of their garden.

Why Choose DRL Tree Care?

This project showcases the expertise, precision, and care that DRL Tree Care brings to every job, no matter how complex. Whether you have a tree in a difficult-to-reach location or need a large tree removed with minimal impact on your property, we have the skills, experience, and equipment to get the job done safely and efficiently.

If you’re facing a challenging tree removal or need advice on managing your trees, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always ready to provide a bespoke solution for your needs.

Contact Us Today

For expert tree care services or to discuss your specific tree removal project, call Don on 07794 590402 or email us at bigtree@drltreecare.co.uk. Let us handle your tree removal needs with the same care and precision we bring to every project!

The post Complex Removal of a Large Beech Tree from a Landlocked Private Property in Coxwold appeared first on DRL Tree Care.

In the case of this Poplar tree, the previous pruning wounds had healed up exceptionally well, and as the customer loved the tree, it was agreed that a sensitive reduction in its height would achieve what we needed to without ruining the aesthetics of the tree.

The location of this tree along with the sheer size of it (approximately 30m tall) made the logistics of carrying out the work safely something of a challenge. Multiple targets on the ground including a play house, fences, shrubs etc all had to be avoided, then there was the significant drag to remova all the arisings from the back garden to contend with.

In total we removed approximately 15% of the tree’s height, or 4m give or take. For a large Poplar tree reduction this was quite a small amount, but it achieved our aims and the client was very happy with the end result.

The post Large Poplar Tree Reduction Near York appeared first on DRL Tree Care.

There were approximately 50 trees all told, each in various stages of decline due to Ash Dieback disease. Some of these trees posed more threat than others, with some of the worse affected being located on the boundary of the client’s property. In addition, many of these dying and therefore dangerous trees were adjacent to the main highway. Due to how brittle Ash trees with Ash dieback disease can become, it was of vital importance to remove any trees causing a potential hazard to road users at the earliest convenience.

BEST PRACTICE FOR THE FELLING OF ASH TREES WITH ASH DIEBACK

Although some of the trees were less affected than others, the owner had decided to take a pro-active approach by removing all affected trees. There is currently no known cure or treatment for chalara Ash dieback disease. Therefore the best current practice as endorsed by Forest Research, is to fell all affected trees with the aim of slowing the spread of the disease. The felling of these Ash trees has been carried out with a view to re-planting with suitable replacement trees throughout the property.

As there were a large number of trees to be removed, larger machinery was brought in to assist with the handling of the timber and brushwood. As well as making it less labour intensive for the staff, it also meant the job could be carried out at a far quicker pace. This ultimately meant less time on site and the least amount of disruption to our client as possible.

The unfortunate spread of Chalara Ash dieback disease appears to be increasing throughout Yorkshire. Whilst some areas still remain largely unaffected, it is important to monitor the condition of your Ash trees on a regular basis. The Tree Council have published a useful identification guide for Ash dieback disease which can be found here.

What to do if I find suspected Chalara on my trees?

Depending on the severity of the infection and the location of the tree you should first and foremost have it assessed by a professional tree surgeon. Putting off the removal of a tree for financial or other reasons might be tempting, but could potentially open you up to more expenses further down the line. For example, a tree in the latter stages of Ash dieback may require specialist equipment to remove it, such as a cherry picker or crane.

The post Felling of Ash Trees due to ash Dieback appeared first on DRL Tree Care.

The post Conifer Removals appeared first on DRL Tree Care.