Tree reduction Making a tall tree smaller
A tree that has outgrown the garden doesn't always have to come down. Here are the ways to make it smaller, what each one does to the tree, and how to choose.
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Tree reduction in short
Tree reduction means making a tree smaller in height, spread or both. The right way for most trees is a crown reduction: each branch is cut back to a healthy side branch, typically taking 1 to 3 metres off, so the tree keeps its natural shape. Trees that have been pollarded before can be pollarded again. Topping, cutting the tree off at a set height, damages trees and isn't a safe option.
- Usual answer
- Crown reduction, 1 to 3 m off height and spread
- Already pollarded
- Re-pollard on its cycle
- Too much shade but right size
- Crown thinning
- Far too big for the space
- Removal and replanting with a smaller tree
- Never
- Topping or lopping
Your options compared
| Option | What it does | Good for | Repeat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crown reduction | Cuts back the outside of the crown to side branches | Most broadleaf trees that have outgrown their space | Every 3 to 5 years |
| Pollarding | Cuts regrowth back to the same framework | Lime, plane, willow and trees already pollarded | Every 2 to 5 years |
| Crown thinning | Removes inner branches, size unchanged | More light and less weight | Every 3 to 5 years |
| Removal and replanting | Takes the tree out and plants a smaller species | Trees far too big for the space | Once |
| Topping | Cuts the tree off at a set height | Not recommended: decay and weak regrowth | Not applicable |
How to choose the right one
Start with what is bothering you, then look at the tree.
If the tree is healthy and simply too big, a crown reduction usually does the job. A 2 m reduction makes a real difference to a garden tree of 10 to 15 m. Use the buttons on the picture to compare 1 m, 2 m and 3 m.
If the main problem is shade rather than size, thinning lets light through without changing the outline. If branches are in the way at the bottom, lifting clears them.
Some trees can't be reduced much without suffering. Large conifers such as leylandii and many pines don't regrow from bare wood, and beech and birch resent heavy cuts. Where a tree is far too big for its space, removing it and planting a better-suited tree can be the kinder choice.
We'll look at your tree and tell you honestly which option will work. See also our guide to crown reduction vs crown thinning.
Tree reduction questions
Anything not covered here? Ask us and we'll give you a straight answer.
How much can you reduce a tree by?
Can you reduce the height of a conifer?
Is topping a tree bad?
Do I need permission to reduce a tree?
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