This project involved the substantial height reduction of three very tall Leylandii trees within a residential garden. Over time, the trees had grown well beyond their original scale, becoming difficult to manage and less effective in providing the dense, uniform screening the customer wanted. The objective of the work was to significantly reduce the height of the trees while encouraging thicker lateral growth to improve their function as a natural privacy barrier.
Each Leylandii was reduced by approximately seven metres in height. Reductions of this nature require careful planning and experienced execution, particularly with evergreen species. While this type of work is sometimes referred to as topping, when carried out professionally and with the right intent, it can be an effective way to reshape Leylandii and promote denser side growth. Encouraging lateral growth helps create a fuller, more compact screen, reducing gaps and improving privacy over time.
Before work began, our arborists assessed the trees’ structure, health and surrounding environment. The aim was to achieve a balanced reduction that maintained stability and avoided placing unnecessary stress on the trees. All cuts were made carefully, ensuring the remaining framework of the trees could support healthy regrowth and retain structural integrity. Maintaining sufficient foliage is particularly important for Leylandii, as cutting back too aggressively into old wood can affect recovery.
Given the height of the trees, the work presented a physical and technical challenge. Professional climbing techniques and equipment were used to access the upper sections safely and carry out the reductions in a controlled manner. Throughout the process, branches were removed methodically to maintain balance and reduce the risk of sudden movement or instability.
One notable advantage on this job was the presence of artificial grass within the garden. Following such a large-scale reduction, a significant volume of cut material needed to be processed and removed. Artificial grass provided a durable, easy-to-clean surface, allowing the team to move efficiently without the risk of damaging lawns or creating muddy conditions. This helped speed up the clean-up process considerably and ensured the garden was left in excellent condition.
All arisings were processed and removed from site as part of the service, with the work area kept tidy throughout the project. Once complete, the Leylandii were noticeably reduced in height but retained a strong, healthy structure. Over time, the encouraged lateral growth will help create a thicker, more effective privacy screen, better suited to the garden and easier to maintain moving forward.
The customer was very pleased with the outcome, particularly the improved appearance, enhanced privacy and the tidy finish left behind. This project highlights how professional height reduction can transform overgrown Leylandii into a practical, well-managed feature while supporting their long-term health.
