Late summer to early autumn.

The yew tree, known scientifically as Taxus baccata, is a remarkable evergreen conifer that can live for hundreds of years. In fact, there are ten yew trees in Britain that have stood since before the 10th century. This makes the yew tree not only a beautiful addition to any landscape but also a true piece of living history.

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There are different types of yew trees, such as the English yew, the Irish yew, and various common yews like Standishii and Icicle. These trees can vary in height, from half a meter to an impressive 20 meters. Many people choose to use yew trees as hedging plants due to their year-round privacy screening benefits and attractive red fruits.

Why is Yew Tree Pruning Important?

Yew trees are slow-growing, so they don’t require much trimming, except for shaping purposes when used as hedges or topiary. However, certain types of yew trees, like the fastigiate yews, can benefit from regular pruning to maintain their columnar shape. Pruning also allows for inspecting the tree for common pests like vine weevils, tortrix moths, gall mites, and scale insects.

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Late summer to early autumn is the best time to prune yew tree hedges for maintenance purposes. For hedge renovation, mid-spring is the ideal time to cut back the top of the hedge. If a neglected hedge is showing bare trunk at the base, coppicing may be necessary. This involves cutting back the top growth to within 15 to 20 centimeters of the ground. Coppicing should be done in early spring, but keep in mind that it may take several years for the tree to fully recover.

Fastigiate yews can be trimmed in August to help maintain their shape. For yew trees in general, shaping and maintenance should be done twice a year, once in spring and again in summer. If you notice any diseased or damaged branches, it’s crucial to prune them out as soon as possible to ensure the tree’s health and safety.

What to Look for When Pruning a Yew Tree

When pruning a yew tree, it’s important to be on the lookout for common pests. The tortrix moth’s caterpillars bind leaves together, while vine weevils cause irregular-shaped notches on leaf margins during summer or wilting and death of plants from autumn to spring. Gall mites can cause distorted growth and galls, while scale insects leave scales on leaves and stems and leave sooty molds on foliage. Additionally, regularly check for Phytophthora root rot.

Tree Preservation Orders

Before proceeding with any tree work, it’s vital to determine if there is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in effect. If there is, you are not permitted to proceed without obtaining permission from the local authority. Applying for permission can take up to eight weeks. Keep in mind that if the tree is located in a conservation area, permission must also be obtained before any works can be undertaken.

The Importance of Yew Tree Pruning Expertise

To ensure that your yew tree receives the proper care it deserves, it’s recommended to hire a professional tree surgeon with the necessary qualifications and experience. A qualified tree surgeon will understand the specific needs of your yew tree and know how to handle any pest infestations or diseases that may arise.

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When selecting a tree surgeon, ask for checkable references and certificates to verify their qualifications. It’s also important to see insurance documents to ensure that you are covered for the work being done. Whenever possible, choose a tree surgeon approved by Trading Standards and the local authority.

If your yew tree requires pruning or any other attention, consider contacting T.H. Tree Services. As fully qualified and approved tree surgeons, they can provide specialist expertise in all aspects of yew tree pruning. For a free, no-obligation quotation, reach out to their friendly experts on 01268 642814 or visit their website.

In practice, it’s worth noting that yew tree pruning should be done with care and precision. It’s essential to use the appropriate tools and techniques to avoid causing unnecessary damage to the tree. Additionally, regular inspections and monitoring for pests and diseases can help maintain the health of yew trees.

When pruning yew trees, it can be helpful to take before and after photos to monitor the progress and ensure the desired outcome is achieved. Keeping a journal or record of pruning dates and observations can also be valuable for future reference.

Overall, proper yew tree pruning, done at the right time and with the right expertise, can help ensure the longevity and beauty of these remarkable trees.

Source: https://t-tees.com
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