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pruning a mature oaktree?

Last post 07-10-2009 1:57 PM by val. 3 replies.

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  • 06/10/2009 03:29 PM
    • val
    • isleworth
    • 06 Oct 2009
    • 2
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    I have a mature oak tree - probably 150 years old - in my garden to the north of my house. We have had the canopy raised and it it is gently thinned every 2 years to keep its size under control and to let some sunlight through but we have to chase the sun around the perimeter of the garden as it does cast such large shade and growing anything is a constant challenge. We have lived here 11years and do adore our oak tree....but.......

    We are well into discussions to build an ecohouse on land to the north of the oak tree and so the tree will cast shade over the new house. (by dint of title deeds and the fact that our current garden is made up of 2 plots of land we will retain the oak tree in the garden of the new house). so the issues are: given the principles of the ecohouse: lots of natural light, lots of southfacing windows, solar panels and PV roof to face south etc etc there is potentially a problem with the oak tree. But it is beautiful, supports loads of wildlife, appreciated in an urban area etc etc.

    I could not bring myself to cut it down...so... could its canopy be severly reduced and thinned? would the tree survive such drastic pruning? is the idea just ridiculous and the poor tree would lose all its integrity etc?

    comments very welcome please    val w
  • 06/10/2009 04:12 PM
    In reply to
    • geoff51
    • Totton, Hampshire
    • 13 Feb 2009
    • 67
    Top 75 Contributor
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    You may have a preservation order on this tree, so please check with your local council before any decision is made as they may not allow you to do any more pruning than the Tree Officer allows.

    Personally I would keep the tree and fit the new house round it if you wish to be more eco friendly

    Geoff51 Pond life!?!
  • 06/10/2009 10:14 PM
    In reply to
    • MIKE ALLEN
    • ELTHAM
    • 04 Apr 2007
    • 10
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    Obviously you have a deeper affection for trees than perhaps many others nowadays.  IMHO I would take into account the age of the tree.  It was there long before me, conclusion.

    Possible preservation order in force?  The oak is such a statement on it's own.  There is a good chance that the tree will out-survive you and your new venture.  Careful maintenance of the tree will continue to be so rewarding.  For me.  The tree would stay.

    Mike.
  • 07/10/2009 01:57 PM
    In reply to
    • val
    • isleworth
    • 06 Oct 2009
    • 2
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    Thanks Geoff and Mike...no there is not a TPO on the tree _ wondered whether to get one put on but think that would make the even the gentle pruning hitherto carried out difficult to be approved. Appreciate the sentiments on the value of the tree......I think I will also get my usual tree surgeon and other arboreal advice on the effects of more drastic pruning and continued maintenance. will let you know the eventual outcome! wondered if there were any examples out there of heavily pruned oaks. Val