top of page
All Posts


How to Spot a Dying or Damaged Tree in the South West
Recognising tree health issues early can prevent accidents and costly removals. Common warning signs include cracked bark, fungal growths, hollow trunks, dead branches, and sparse foliage . Dos and Don’ts: Do inspect trees after storms or periods of high wind. Do look for leaning trunks or exposed roots. Don’t assume it’s healthy just because it’s still in leaf—some diseases are internal. If something doesn’t look right, it’s worth having a professional assessment. We’ll h

Steve Toms
Sep 23, 20251 min read


Best Times to Call a Tree Surgeon: Pruning Common South West Trees
Timing is key to effective tree care. For most native and commonly planted trees in the South West—like oak, ash, beech, hazel , and ornamental or fruit-bearing trees —late winter to early spring is ideal for pruning, before new growth begins. Tips: Do prune fruit trees like apple and pear in winter while dormant. Don’t prune during autumn unless absolutely necessary—it can stress the tree. Do seek advice for species-specific timing, especially if you’re unsure. We can hel

Steve Toms
Sep 2, 20251 min read


Understanding Tree Health & Care in the South West
Healthy trees improve air quality, provide shade, and support local ecosystems. In the South West, maintaining tree health involves regular inspections, soil monitoring, pruning, and pest management . Tips: Do mulch around the base of young trees (but not against the trunk). Do water during prolonged dry spells—especially in early years. Don’t use a strimmer or mower too close to the base—it damages the bark. We offer health assessments and ongoing care plans tailored to y

Steve Toms
Aug 5, 20251 min read


Tree Removal Permits in Dorset, Devon & Somerset: What You Need to Know
Before removing a tree, you must check for Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or Conservation Area restrictions. These legal protections exist to preserve trees with public or environmental value. Tips: Do contact your local council’s planning team before starting work. Don’t assume private land means free removal rights—protected trees still apply. Do ask us for help—we can handle the application process on your behalf. By following the proper process, you’ll avoid fines a

Steve Toms
Jul 22, 20251 min read


Dealing with Tree Disease & Damage in the South West
Common local issues include ash dieback, honey fungus, and bacterial canker , especially in damp or shady environments. Early identification and proper management are essential to prevent spread and reduce tree loss. Dos and Don’ts: Do look out for wilting leaves, bark lesions, or early leaf drop. Do remove infected material safely and avoid composting diseased waste. Don’t ignore signs or delay action—tree diseases move fast. We’ll diagnose the issue and advise on treatme

Steve Toms
Jun 24, 20251 min read


Tree Surgery & Garden Terminology: A Quick Guide
Understanding arborist language helps you make informed choices. Here’s a short glossary: Crown Lift: Removing lower branches to increase clearance. Coppicing: Cutting a tree down to its base to encourage new growth. Pollarding: Repeated removal of upper branches to control height and shape. Stump Grinding: Mechanically removing a tree stump after felling. If any terms are unfamiliar, just ask. We’re always happy to explain things clearly, without jargon.

Steve Toms
Jun 10, 20251 min read


What Is Tree Surgery?
Tree surgery covers a range of specialist services including pruning, crown lifting, reductions, removals, and bracing . It ensures trees remain safe, healthy, and well-integrated into their environment. Whether you’re maintaining a mature tree near a building or reshaping a young specimen, we tailor our work to the needs of your site and your long-term goals. Our team is fully insured and trained to national standards.

Steve Toms
May 27, 20251 min read


Trees Native to the South West & Their History
The South West is rich in native species like pedunculate oak, field maple, hawthorn, hornbeam, and hazel . These trees aren’t just beautiful—they support biodiversity, prevent erosion, and have deep historical roots in the region’s hedgerows and woodlands. Tips: Do consider native species when planting—they’re better suited to local soils and wildlife. Don’t remove old or established trees without assessing their ecological value. At Brydian, we always encourage conservati

Steve Toms
May 8, 20251 min read


Finding Local Services: What to Look for in a Reliable Tree Surgeon
If you're looking for a tree surgeon in Dorset, Somerset or Devon, it’s worth doing a little homework to make sure you’re getting the right team. Look for companies that are fully insured , have recognised qualifications , and can show real-life case studies or testimonials . Tips: Do check for NPTC or LANTRA qualifications. Do ask for a written quote and a clear explanation of the work. Don’t go with the cheapest quote without understanding what’s included. A good tree su

Steve Toms
May 8, 20251 min read


Community Work with Brydian: Wood Chip Donation to Beaminster Pre-School
We love giving back to the community that supports us, and recently we were thrilled to help out Beaminster Pre-School with a donation of fresh wood chip. The children took it upon themselves to lay it out in their nature garden—and it’s made a big difference to the outdoor learning space. As a locally rooted company, we believe in supporting the spaces that help young people connect with the outdoors. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply sharing our resour

Steve Toms
May 8, 20251 min read
bottom of page
