Professional Tree Root Pruning

Prevent costly root-related repairs and nurture tree health

- Safe and efficient root pruning

- Fully covered by insurance

- Expert arboriculture advice

Could proper root pruning prevent future problems?

Pruning roots may be necessary to minimise damage to your tree’s root system during construction or when preparing for large tree transplanting. Overgrown roots can also cause damage to infrastructure as they grow unpredictably. In some cases, tree root reduction can even improve tree's health by addressing issues like poor growth or girdling roots.

Improper root pruning and root damage from excavation can cause severe health decline, increasing its vulnerability to disease and the risk of it falling over.

Maximise the life of your tree and infrastructure

Gristwood & Toms offers a specialised root pruning service for homeowners, businesses and developers. Our skilled team uses non-destructive digging methods to locate tree roots underground and examine them.

• Prevent damage caused by roots to essential services located beneath the ground (gas, water mains, etc.)
• Remove dead roots that hinder the viability of the tree
• Address specific growth issues with selective root pruning

Beyond root reduction, we specialise in repairing pavement and paths damaged by tree roots and ground heave. We can also install root barriers to protect your property and infrastructure from future root intrusion.

Concerned about tree health and property damage?

At Gristwood & Toms, we understand that you strive for a landscape with healthy trees that enhance rather than endanger your property. To achieve this, you need expert tree root pruning services that won’t harm your tree or land.

The problem is selecting the wrong team for root cutting can pose significant risks to both the health of your tree and overall safety.

With over 50 years of experience, our team is equipped with the right tools, technique and knowledge to determine which roots can be safely pruned and how to minimise stress to the tree and surrounding vegetation.

Can tree roots cause much damage?

While building foundations can occasionally be affected, tree roots are more commonly responsible for blocked drains and lifted pavements. If you are concerned book in a consultation with one of our expert arborists.

Is root pruning suitable for mature trees?

Although it is possible to root prune mature trees, the risk of negatively impacting their health is higher compared to younger trees. When dealing with mature trees with established root systems, our root pruning experts take the utmost care to remove only what is essential, minimising the potential for root damage.

How are underground tree roots pruned?

Tree root pruning can be approached in several ways:

Air/hand excavation and pruning - roots are exposed using an Air Lance or hand tools for evaluation and pruning. This method helps arborists identify ideal cutting points, typically past sinker roots or junctions. Sharp saws or loppers ensure clean cuts, and exposed fine roots can be protected with damp hessian to prevent drying before the trenches are refilled or a membrane layer is installed to control root growth.

Root cutting machinery - offers fast, clean cuts similar to a stump grinder but it doesn't allow precise control over cut location.

Trencher or excavator - used in conjunction with hand tools  to locate roots where digging by hand is not achievable. All roots located are cut with hand tools to minimise unnecessary  damage.

Before proceeding with any root pruning, we will conduct a thorough tree risk assessment to tailor our approach to your tree's specific health and needs.

Can you cut tree roots above ground?

This can be done in certain circumstances but we ensure the tree's health is maintained.

How close to the trunk can roots be cut?

This will depend on the size of the root and size of the tree. Our experts will make the decision on site.

What are the essential steps in tree care before and after root pruning?

Pre pruning – pruning during droughts should be avoided. The soil will need to be adequately moist before pruning by applying irrigation if needed.

Post pruning - the root pruning trench will be filled with quality topsoil and water until thoroughly soaked.

Mulch can be applied to reduce moisture loss and promote root growth. We can also offer you advice on soil root zone improvements such as biochar, which helps rejuvenate the soil and improve tree’s health.

• Tree Felling
• Tree Trimming, Pruning & Crown Reduction
• Tree Surveying & Consultation
• Stump Grinding
• Tree Root Pruning
• Air Spading & Biochar
• Forestry

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