Pollarding: Process, Suitable Tree, Benefits, Risk, and Mistake

Pollarding involves the systematic removal of the upper branches and stems of a tree. Deciduous trees primarily use this method to control their height and promote new growth. By cutting back the tree to a specific framework of branches, pollarding encourages dense regrowth from the cut points, resulting in a characteristic appearance with knobs at the ends of the branches.

Suitable trees for pollarding include species like oak, lime, and apple trees. These trees are chosen because they respond well to this method by producing vigorous new growth. Pollarding is best initiated when the tree is young, allowing it to adapt to the pruning technique effectively. It is essential to consult an arborist to determine if a particular tree species is appropriate for pollarding, as reviewed by the IOWA State University article “How to Hire an Arborist.”

Pollarding helps to maintain a manageable tree size, reduces shade, and prevents branches from interfering with utility lines and streetlights. Additionally, regular pollarding improves the overall health of the tree by stimulating new growth and reducing the risk of disease through careful pruning techniques. This method can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of trees in urban environments.

The risks associated with pollarding include the potential for fungal or bacterial infections, as well as damage to the tree’s structural integrity if not performed correctly. It is crucial to hire a certified arborist with experience in pollarding to ensure proper pruning techniques and prevent any long-term risk to the tree.

What is Pollarding?

Pollarding is a tree management technique classified under horticultural practices, according to the Science Direct post “Pollarding”. It involves the systematic pruning of a tree by cutting back its upper branches to promote the growth of a dense head of foliage and branches. This method is typically initiated once a tree reaches a certain height, allowing for controlled growth and maintenance of the tree’s size.

Historically, pollarding has been utilized for various practical purposes, such as providing fodder for livestock and producing wood for construction. The practice encourages vigorous new growth at the cut points, creating a characteristic knob-like structure at the ends of the main branches, known as pollard heads. This technique not only helps in managing tree height but also enhances light penetration to the forest floor, promoting biodiversity in woodland areas.

Pollarding is often distinguished from similar practices like coppicing, where trees are cut back to ground level. In pollarding, cuts are made higher up on the trunk, typically above the reach of grazing animals, thus preventing damage to new shoots. The frequency of pollarding varies depending on the intended use of the regrown material; for example, fodder trees may be pruned every two to six years, while wood trees might be pruned every eight to fifteen years.

Pollarding has been a common practice in Britain since medieval times. It is prevalent in urban areas worldwide, according to ResearchGate’s “Pollarding Trees: Changing Attitudes to a Traditional Land Management Practice in Britain 1600–1900” (October 2003). In cities like London, many street trees are pollarded as part of ongoing management schemes to prevent interference with overhead wires and streetlights. This method not only helps maintain urban greenery but also contributes to reducing debris from fallen leaves and branches.

How is the Pollarding Process Conducted?

The main steps involved in the pollarding process are the selection of trees, timing, cutting technique, and maintenance, according to the Agriculture and Life Sciences Journal on “Prunning Trees and Shrubs.”

The main steps involved in the pollarding process are listed below.

• Selection of Tree: Not all trees are suitable for pollarding. Typically, deciduous trees like willows, oaks, and limes are chosen for this method due to their ability to regenerate after heavy pruning.
• Timing: Pollarding is usually conducted during late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant. This timing minimizes stress on the tree and reduces sap loss.
• Cutting Technique: The process involves making cuts at specific points on the tree. The upper branches are removed, leaving a few large branches or a trunk. This is done using sharp tools to ensure clean cuts, which helps prevent disease.
• Maintenance: After initial pollarding, regular maintenance is required to manage regrowth. This typically involves periodic trimming every few years to keep the tree at a desired height and promote healthy growth. Pollarding has several advantages, including controlling tree size, enhancing light penetration to lower plants, and producing materials such as firewood or fodder from the regrowth.

Each of these steps plays a crucial role in ensuring that the pollarding process is effective and beneficial for the tree and its surrounding environment.

Which Trees are Most Suitable for Pollarding?

The most suitable trees for pollarding are willow, oak, hornbeam, holly, yew, bay laurel, London plane, and common lime, as reviewed by the World Agroforestry Journal on ” Pollarding and root pruning as management options for tree-crop competition and firewood production” by Sande B D (2003).

The most suitable trees for pollarding are listed below.

• Willow: Willows are fast-growing and respond vigorously to pollarding, making them a popular choice for creating flexible structures like baskets.
• Oak : Oak trees can be pollarded to encourage dense, bushy growth, serving as a windbreak or privacy screen.
• Hornbeam: Known for its dense leafy crown, hornbeam is often used in hedging and responds well to pollarding.
• Holly: Holly trees can be shaped through pollarding to create a bushy appearance, making them practical for privacy screens.
• Yew: Yew trees are commonly used in topiary because they can be shaped into intricate forms when pollarded.
• Bay Laurel: This tree produces a dense crown and is favored for hedging. It responds well to pollarding.
• London Plane: Frequently seen in urban environments, the London plane is robust and can be maintained at a manageable height through regular pollarding.
• Common Lime: This tree is also well-suited for pollarding, providing shade and aesthetic appeal in landscapes.

Pollarding is an effective way to manage the growth of these trees, ensuring they remain healthy and visually appealing. Regular maintenance through this technique can enhance their longevity and overall vitality.

What are the Benefits of Pollarding?

The benefits of pollarding are improving tree health, enhancing exposure to sunlight, aiding in disease detection, and minimizing damage potential, according to the Agroforestry Innovation Report “Farming with pollards” (2017).

The benefits of pollarding according to the Agroforestry Innovation Report are listed below

• Improving tree health: Pollarding helps maintain trees’ overall health by removing dead or diseased branches that could otherwise sap the tree’s resources. This process encourages new growth and can extend the tree’s lifespan by promoting a robust canopy.
• Enhancing exposure to sunlight: By reducing the density of branches, pollarding allows sunlight to penetrate deeper into the tree’s structure. This increased light exposure can prevent decay in lower branches and promote healthier growth throughout the tree.
• Aiding in disease detection: Arborists can closely inspect trees for signs of disease or infestation during pollarding. Early detection allows for timely intervention, preventing the spread of issues that might compromise the tree’s health.
• Minimizing damage potential: Pollarding reduces the risk of large branches falling, which is particularly important in urban areas where trees are near buildings or roads. This practice helps ensure public safety by preventing potential injuries or property damage from falling limbs.

Pollarding provides numerous benefits for trees and their surrounding environments. By improving tree health, enhancing sunlight exposure, aiding in disease detection, and minimizing damage potential, this practice plays a vital role in maintaining the vitality and safety of trees in urban areas.

What Risks are Associated with Pollarding?

The risks associated with pollarding include tree stress, increased vulnerability to pests and diseases, and potential structural damage, as reviewed on Research Gate, “Tree Pollarding” by Dr Sameer Daniel (September 2024).

The risks associated with pollarding, according to Research Gate, are listed below.

• Tree Stress: Tree stress refers to the tree’s inability to cope with environmental or cultural conditions. Pollarding reduces the tree’s ability to produce energy through photosynthesis, which can significantly stress its growth and overall health. Additionally, the constant pruning involved in pollarding can leave open wounds that make it easier for pests and diseases to invade the tree.
• Increased Vulnerability to Pests and Diseases: Vulnerability to pests and diseases involves a tree’s susceptibility to attack by insects, fungi, or bacteria. When a tree is pollarded, it becomes more vulnerable to pests and diseases as its natural defense mechanisms are compromised due to the constant pruning. This can lead to significant damage and even death of the tree if proper care is not taken.
• Potential Structural Damage: Pollarding involves removing large branches from the trunk of a tree, which can alter its structural integrity. Over time, this can lead to weakened limbs that may break off during strong winds or heavy snowfall. It can also result in an imbalanced crown, making the tree more susceptible to storm damage.

To mitigate these risks associated with pollarding, proper techniques and timing must be used. It is essential to consult a professional arborist who can assess the tree’s condition and determine if pollarding is the best option. They also provide proper care and maintenance to ensure the tree remains healthy.

What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided in Pollarding?

The common mistakes that should be avoided in pollarding include over-pollarding, pollarding at the wrong time, incorrect pollarding cuts, and neglecting maintenance of the pollarded tree, according to Research Gate, “Tree Pollarding” by Dr Sameer Daniel (September 2024).

The common mistakes that should be avoided in pollarding, according to Research Gate, are listed below.

• Over-Pollarding: Over-pollarding refers to removing too much of the tree during pollarding. Excessive removal weakens the tree’s structure and health, leaving it vulnerable to pests and diseases.
• Pollarding at the Wrong Time: Pollarding should ideally occur during the dormant season, typically in winter. Performing this task during the growing season shocks the tree and potentially leads to its decline.
• Incorrect Pollarding Cuts: Making improper cuts, such as cutting too close to the trunk instead of at the branch collar, causes significant damage. This cut may hinder the tree’s ability to heal and expose it to infections.
• Not Maintaining the Pollarded Tree: After pollarding, it is crucial to manage new growth and ensure proper pruning regularly. Failing to maintain the tree results in overgrowth and health issues.

Proper pollarding requires both knowledge and skill. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure the health and longevity of your pollarded tree while also maintaining its aesthetic appeal. If you are unsure about how to pollard a tree properly, it is always best to consult a professional arborist who has the expertise and equipment necessary for this task.

What is the difference between pollarding and pruning?

The difference between pollarding and pruning is that pollarding involves removing the entire top portion of a tree, while pruning focuses on selectively removing specific branches to maintain the tree’s overall shape and health, according to the Forest Gardening Center post “Pollarding –/pälərd’ing/ – technique“ (June 24, 2020).

Can any tree be pollarded?

Yes, any tree can be pollarded, but it may not always be recommended. Trees with softer wood or those that are less vigorous may not respond well to pollarding and could suffer long-term damage, according to Research Gate, “Tree Pollarding” by Dr Sameer Daniel (September 2024).

How often should a tree be pollarded?

Trees should be pollarded every 2-3 years to maintain their desired size and shape. However, the frequency may vary depending on factors such as the type of tree, its growth rate, and environmental conditions, according to the Science Direct Review’s “Pollarding—An Overview.”

Is pollarding harmful to trees?

Yes, pollarding can be harmful to trees if not done correctly, according to the Science Direct Review’s “Pollarding—An Overview.” Over-pollarding, improper cuts, and neglected maintenance can weaken the tree’s health and structure, making it more susceptible to pests and diseases. Proper techniques and timing must be used to avoid harm.

Can I do pollarding on my own?

You can do pollarding independently by consulting a professional arborist and learning proper techniques and timing. However, it is recommended that you have the necessary equipment and expertise before attempting this task, as it can be harmful if not done correctly, according to the  Research Gate, “Tree Pollarding” by Dr Sameer Daniel (September 2024).