When a Willow Outgrows Its Space: Safe, Controlled Tree Felling in Guildford

Willow trees are known for their graceful shape and sweeping branches — but they’re also one of the fastest-growing species in the UK. When left unchecked, they can become unstable, overwhelm gardens, or interfere with nearby structures.

Recently, our ArborLife Tree Surgeons team were called to a property in Guildford where a mature willow had grown too large for its setting. The tree was leaning, shading out the garden, and showing early signs of structural weakness. The safest option was to fell the tree in a controlled, methodical way.

Why This Willow Needed to Be Felled

On inspection, our team found several issues:

• The trunk had begun to lean towards a neighbouring boundary
• Multiple limbs were heavy and overextended
• The crown was densely packed, reducing wind resistance and increasing sail effect
• The roots had started to push up paving, posing a trip hazard
• High winds had caused minor branch failures in the past

Willow wood is naturally soft and brittle, making large trees of this species more vulnerable to splitting, especially in urban gardens.

Our Professional Willow Felling Process in Guildford

1. Site Survey & Safety Assessment

Before we began, we checked:

• Access points
• Escape routes
• Nearby fencing and structures
• Overhead cables
• Ground stability around the tree

A full risk assessment ensured complete control at every stage.

2. Sectional Dismantling

Due to limited space, the willow could not be dropped in one piece.
Instead, our climbers:

• Ascended the tree using ropes
• Removed branches in small, manageable sections
• Lowered heavy limbs safely using rigging equipment
• Ensured no damage to surrounding gardens

3. Felling the Main Stem

Once the crown was removed, we performed a controlled fell of the remaining trunk.
Directional cuts and wedges ensured the stem fell exactly where planned.

4. Stump Removal & Waste Clearance

To prevent regrowth — which willows are notorious for — the stump was ground out below soil level.
All branches were chipped and removed, leaving the garden clear and ready for replanting.

Results for the Homeowner

Once the willow was removed:

• The garden was dramatically brighter
• The leaning hazard was eliminated
• Paving could be repaired safely
• Space was opened up for new planting or landscaping

The client commented that the garden felt “twice the size” once the overcrowded willow was gone.

1. Do I need permission to fell a willow in Guildford?

Only if the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or sits in a conservation area. If you’re unsure, ArborLife can check on your behalf.

2. Why can't large willows be felled in one go?

Willows grow in soft soil and often lean; sectional dismantling is safer and prevents damage to property, fencing, or lawns.

3. Will the willow regrow after felling?

Yes — willows readily re-shoot. To stop regrowth, the stump must be ground out or treated professionally.

4. Is it dangerous to leave an overgrown willow unpruned?

Potentially. Old or heavy limbs can fail in wind, and roots may cause damage to paving or drainage systems.

5. How much does willow felling cost in Surrey?

Costs vary by size and access, but most large willow removals in Guildford fall between £650–£1,400, including safe dismantling and waste removal.