Tree surgery might sound straightforward, but it’s often misunderstood. Over the years, we’ve heard plenty of myths about tree care—from “anyone with a chainsaw can do it” to “trees don’t need regular maintenance.”
These misconceptions can lead to unsafe practices, unhealthy trees, and unhappy homeowners. So, let’s clear the air! Here are five common myths about tree surgery—and the truth behind them.
Myth 1: "Anyone with a Chainsaw Can Be a Tree Surgeon"
Let’s start with the big one. Yes, chainsaws are part of the job, but tree surgery isn’t just about cutting branches—it’s a skilled profession that requires extensive training, safety knowledge, and qualifications.
The Truth:
Professional tree surgeons are trained arborists who understand tree biology, growth patterns, and structural integrity. They know how to safely assess a tree’s health and carry out work without causing harm to the tree, your property, or themselves.
At London Treescapes, we’re fully qualified and insured, so you can trust us to do the job right.
Myth 2: "Trees in Cities Don’t Need Pruning—They Grow Fine on Their Own"
It’s easy to think that trees don’t need human intervention—they’ve been growing naturally for thousands of years! But in urban areas like South-East London, it’s a different story.
The Truth:
Urban trees face challenges like restricted root space, pollution, and close proximity to buildings and people. Without regular pruning, they can become unsafe, block light, or even damage property. Pruning helps trees stay healthy, safe, and aesthetically pleasing in their surroundings.
Myth 3: "Tree Surgery Is Only Needed for Dead or Dangerous Trees"
Many people believe tree surgery is something you only call for in an emergency—like when a tree is about to fall or has already caused damage.
The Truth:
While tree surgery does include emergency work, it’s also about preventative care. Regular maintenance, such as pruning and thinning, improves a tree’s health, encourages strong growth, and prevents issues from arising in the first place.
Think of it like a health check-up for your tree—it’s much easier (and cheaper!) to fix a small problem than to wait for it to become a big one.
Myth 4: "You Can Prune or Remove Any Tree on Your Property"
You might think you have the right to do what you like with the trees on your land, but in many areas of South-East London, that’s not the case.
The Truth:
If your tree is in a conservation area or covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), you’ll need permission from the local council before carrying out any work. Ignoring these rules can result in fines of up to £20,000 per tree.
At London Treescapes, we handle the permissions process for you, so you can relax knowing everything is above board.
Myth 5: "Pruning Trees Hurts Them"
Some people worry that pruning trees is unnatural or harmful, thinking it might stunt growth or weaken the tree.
The Truth:
When done correctly, pruning actually helps trees thrive. Removing dead or diseased branches prevents the spread of decay, while thinning the canopy improves airflow and sunlight. A well-pruned tree is healthier, more stable, and more likely to grow beautifully for years to come.
Bringing It All Together
Tree surgery is so much more than cutting branches—it’s about keeping trees healthy, safe, and beautiful, especially in urban areas like South-East London. By busting these myths, we hope you feel more confident about the value of professional tree care and what it can do for your property.
Got a question about tree care? Contact London Treescapes today for expert advice and friendly service. Whether it’s pruning, inspections, or emergency work, we’re here to help.