What is Tree Pollarding, and is it Right for Your Tree?

If you’ve ever seen a tree with a distinctive, knotted appearance where its branches have been cut back to the same point year after year, you’ve likely come across a pollarded tree.

Tree pollarding is a traditional method of tree management, commonly used in urban areas and along roadsides to control tree size and encourage fresh growth. But is it the right choice for your tree?

In this guide, we’ll explain what pollarding is, why it’s done, and whether it’s suitable for your trees.

What is tree pollarding?

Pollarding is a pruning technique where the upper branches of a tree are cut back to a specific height, encouraging new growth from that point.

This process is usually repeated every few years, keeping the tree smaller than it would naturally grow and giving it a distinctive rounded canopy.

This technique dates back centuries when it was commonly used to produce firewood, fodder for livestock, and even building materials while keeping trees alive. Nowadays, it’s mainly used to control tree size, particularly in towns and cities where trees need to be managed to prevent them from interfering with roads, buildings, and power lines.

Pollarded trees develop a distinctive “knobbly” appearance where new shoots continually grow from the same point. This regrowth, while unusual-looking, is actually a sign of a well-maintained pollard.

The benefits of pollarding

So why would you choose to pollard a tree? This method comes with several key benefits, particularly in urban and managed landscapes:

Controls tree size

Pollarding keeps trees at a manageable height, which is particularly useful in residential areas or places where trees could block streetlights, signage, or overhead cables.

Encourages dense foliage

By regularly cutting back branches, pollarding encourages bushy regrowth, making it ideal for trees used for shade, aesthetics, or even screening in gardens and public spaces.

Reduces the risk of storm damage

Large, overgrown trees are more likely to suffer from broken branches in strong winds. Pollarding helps manage the weight of the tree and removes heavy limbs that could pose a risk.

Prevents interference with buildings and infrastructure

Trees growing near roads, houses, and power lines can cause problems if left unchecked. Pollarding stops them from getting too big and causing damage or obstruction. 

Prolongs tree life

When done correctly, pollarding can actually extend a tree’s lifespan by removing weaker branches and stimulating new, healthy growth. Some of the oldest pollarded trees in the UK have been maintained for hundreds of years!

When is pollarding appropriate?

Pollarding is a specialist pruning method, and it’s not suitable for every tree. It works best on fast-growing, resilient species, including:

• London Plane (Platanus x hispanica)
• Willow (Salix species)
• Poplar (Populus species)
• Lime (Tilia species)
• Ash (Fraxinus species)

If your tree is one of these species and is located in a space where its growth needs to be controlled, pollarding might be the best option.

The best time to pollard is late winter to early spring, while the tree is still dormant but just before new growth begins. This minimises stress on the tree and encourages healthy regrowth in the warmer months.

When should you avoid pollarding?

While pollarding has its benefits, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are times when it’s not the best choice:

Not all trees respond well

Some species do not tolerate heavy pruning, and pollarding them could leave them weak or susceptible to disease. Trees like oak, beech, and cherry should not be pollarded.

It can be too extreme for stressed trees

If a tree is already struggling due to disease, pests, or environmental stress, pollarding could weaken it further rather than help it recover. 

Requires regular maintenance 

Once a tree has been pollarded, it must be maintained every few years. If left unmanaged, regrowth can become unstable, leading to weak branches that could snap off.

Not suitable for trees with preservation orders

If a tree is protected under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), you will need permission before carrying out any work. Always check with your local council before making major cuts.

How pollarding differs from other pruning methods

Pollarding is just one type of pruning, and it’s important to know the difference between other common techniques:

Pollarding vs. Crown Reduction – Crown reduction reduces a tree’s height and spread but maintains its natural shape, whereas pollarding removes the upper branches entirely.

Pollarding vs. Topping – Topping is an improper and harmful method of cutting back branches without regard for tree health, whereas pollarding is controlled and beneficial when done correctly.

Pollarding vs. Crown Thinning – Crown thinning removes selective branches to allow more light and airflow, without drastically altering the tree’s overall shape or height.

Understanding these differences is the key to choosing the right method for your tree’s health and surroundings.

Why you should hire a professional for pollarding

Pollarding isn’t a DIY job. Cutting back branches too harshly or at the wrong time can leave a tree vulnerable to disease and structural weakness. That’s why it’s always best to hire a qualified tree surgeon to assess the tree and carry out the work professionally.

A professional can:

• Identify whether pollarding is the best option
• Carry out cuts correctly to avoid tree stress and disease
• Ensure the tree remains safe, stable, and well-maintained
• Advise on a maintenance plan to keep the tree healthy in the long term

Conclusion: Is pollarding right for your tree?

Pollarding is a highly effective pruning technique for the right trees in the right locations. It helps control growth, reduce risks, and extend tree life, making it an excellent choice for urban areas and confined spaces. However, it’s not suitable for every tree, and incorrect pollarding can cause more harm than good.

If you’re unsure whether your tree needs pollarding, TH Trees Ltd can help. Our expert tree surgeons can assess your tree and recommend the best pruning method to keep it healthy and safe.

Contact TH Trees Ltd today for professional tree pollarding and expert advice on tree care.

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