Good questions.
Clear answers.

BM Tree Surgeon is based in Sligo and covers Sligo, Mayo, Leitrim, Roscommon and Galway. Our office is at Westport Business Park. Call with your town or postcode so we can discuss attendance and access.

The price depends on tree size and condition, access, nearby buildings, the equipment required and the amount of material to clear. A large tree in a tight garden can take more planning than a similar tree in an open field. Contact us for a quotation based on your actual site.

Photos are a useful starting point. Include the whole tree, its base, nearby buildings and access to the garden. We may need a site visit before confirming the scope and price, particularly for large trees, defects or confined access.

Removal is not always necessary. Depending on its condition and your concerns, pruning or another maintenance approach may be suitable. We discuss the options and explain the purpose of any recommended work. Specialist investigation may be needed where defects are uncertain.

Reduction makes the crown smaller using selected cuts. Thinning removes selected branches inside the crown while keeping the overall size. Lifting creates clearance beneath the tree by removing some lower branches. The right treatment depends on the objective and the tree.

Timing varies by species, condition and the work proposed. Some trees are better pruned during active growth; others may be managed during dormancy. Urgent damage may require a different approach. We discuss timing for your particular tree rather than applying one rule to all trees.

Restricted access does not automatically prevent tree work. We assess gate widths, steps, obstacles and space for equipment. Some trees can be dismantled in sections, while stump grinder access depends on the machine and route available.

No. Grinding reduces the main stump and some nearby roots to an agreed depth; it does not excavate the whole root system. Remaining roots usually decay over time, although some species can produce suckers. Tell us whether you plan to replant, lay turf or build so the scope can be agreed.

Waste handling is agreed in the quotation. Depending on the job, material may be chipped, removed or retained as logs by arrangement. Stump grindings, soil replacement and backfilling should also be discussed so the finished result is clear.

Often, but the species matters. Some hedges recover from hard reduction and others will not regrow reliably from bare old wood. We discuss the likely result, achievable size and whether staged work would be more appropriate.

Active nests and other protected wildlife must be considered before work. If nesting activity is found, the work may need to be postponed or adjusted. The timing and scope must take account of applicable wildlife protections and any nesting activity on site.

Permission or a licence may be required depending on the location, tree, protection status and nature of the work. Requirements depend on the location and circumstances of the proposed work. Check the relevant authority before work proceeds; never assume that a tree on private land is exempt.

Call to explain what has happened and we will discuss the next available attendance. Keep people away from leaning trees, suspended branches and fallen limbs. Do not approach trees touching power lines; contact the electricity network operator.

We need access to the agreed work area and a way to reach you if something needs clarification. Whether you need to remain on site can be agreed in advance. Pets, children and other visitors should be kept away from the working area.

Let us know about gates, steps, parking restrictions, underground services and anything fragile near the tree. Move vehicles and garden furniture when requested. We will discuss safe access and the working area before starting.

BM Tree Surgeon was established in 2005. We are based in Sligo, with an office at Westport Business Park, serving homeowners and commercial customers across the north-west.