Holly Tree Removal Cost

Holly trees are commonly found in many gardens, either as shrubs, hedging or stand-alone trees. They are popular for their dense foliage, glossy leaves and decorative red berries, particularly at Christmas when sprigs are brought indoors to decorate homes.

However, holly trees can grow quite large and dense over time, and this can cause problems. The thick foliage can block sunlight, the tree may interfere with nearby structures or it may become difficult to maintain. Lower leaves tend to be prickly, which makes pruning a challenge.

Homeowners may choose to remove the holly tree if it has become too large, it’s poorly positioned in the garden or is diseased or damaged. Tree removal is typically done by tree surgeons as they have the expertise, knowledge and equipment to do so safely.

The cost of removing a holly tree depends on several factors, such as its height, trunk diameter, access, and removal method, such as sectional dismantling and waste disposal. If the stump is to be removed, this adds to the overall cost.

How Much is Holly Tree Removal?

A small to medium-sized holly tree will cost between £100 and £250 to remove. Larger and more mature trees typically cost between £300 and £500. Many elements will affect the average cost, including the size of the tree, garden access and the complexity of the removal.

Height and Width of the Tree

A holly tree removal cost is primarily influenced by the height of the tree, as well as the width of the canopy. A professional will take off some or all of the branches before felling the tree. There are a few reasons for doing this, but it’s mostly for safety and control of the removal.

Taking off branches or ‘limbing’ reduces the risk of the tree falling unpredictably during the felling process. It lowers the tree’s centre of gravity, making it easier to guide it to the ground safely. Trimming large trees will add to the labour and timeframe, increasing the costs of removal.

Thickness of the Trunk

The thickness of the trunk is directly related to how heavy the holly tree is, and this impacts the cost of removing it. Cutting down a tree with a large diameter trunk will take more time, adding to labour costs.

It also has the potential to cause damage when it comes down, so sectional dismantling is often used, especially in confined spaces or where the weight of the trunk would cause damage. The amount of waste generated is also directly related to the trunk size.

Accessibility of the Tree

A holly tree growing in an open area with good access is cheaper to remove than one in a small space with no access for machinery. It takes longer and increased manpower to remove a holly tree from these situations, which pushes up the price of removal.

The work to cut down the holly tree, as well as the removal of debris in confined situations, is always more labour-intensive, increasing how much you pay.

Proximity to Buildings, Fences, or Other Structures

If the holly tree is close to a fence, building or other structures such as a greenhouse or patio, it makes removal more difficult. Machinery can’t be used, so manual tools are often needed, which slows down the work.

Access to the tree may be difficult if it is close to buildings or a fence, which makes taking it down more labour-intensive. Fencing panels may need to be removed or extra precautions taken to avoid structural damage.

Whether the Tree Must be Removed in Sections

Care needs to be taken that the felled tree doesn’t cause damage to the surrounding area, and in these cases, a tall holly tree may need to be dismantled in sections. This method is used in small gardens, confined spaces and residential areas.

Hollies, which are diseased or damaged, may also be taken down in this way, as these trees may fall unpredictably with straight felling. A large holly tree can also cause damage to the ground if it is cut down in one piece.

Waste Removal and Disposal

The size of the holly tree will determine the volume of waste, which in turn impacts how much you pay for its removal and disposal. Holly makes excellent firewood when seasoned for a couple of years, so those with a log burner often keep the wood.

Most landscapers and tree surgeons will offer waste removal as part of their service; just make sure it’s included in the quotes you request.

Stump Grinding or Root Removal

The stump left behind when a tree is felled presents problems for many gardens. It can be an obstacle to mowing, a tripping hazard or attract fungal disease such as honey fungus.

Stump grinding is a separate service from tree felling, and you should ask for a quote if you want this done after the holly is cut down. Holly roots are fibrous and typically shallow, remaining in the top 12-18 inches of soil. They can be dug out manually or with an excavator.

In general, large, mature holly trees are more expensive to remove than smaller specimens or holly hedges, as they involve more labour and equipment.

Holly Tree Removal Prices

The cost of removing a holly tree depends largely on the size of the tree, access to the garden and the complexity of the work. Grinding down the stump adds to the overall cost but provides a clear area for replanting and removes an unsightly obstacle from your garden.

Supply Costs

Tree surgeons use a mix of common tools and specialist equipment due to the nature of their job. Because they often work in the tree canopy and not just on the ground, they have various pieces of equipment that are unique to their work.

Chainsaws

Professional landscapers and tree surgeons use chainsaws to fell and cut up trees. There are petrol, battery and corded electric types, with tree surgeons typically using petrol and battery-operated models.

Some chainsaws are specifically designed for in-tree work, which feature top rather than rear handles, lanyard attachment points and an excellent power-to-weight ratio. They are also compact and lightweight for manoeuvrability.

Pruning Saws and Cutting Tools

Pruning saws, secateurs and loppers are used for smaller branches and roots. Pruning saws are either straight or curved and come in a variety of sizes with large, sharp teeth, cutting through wood on the pull stroke.

Loppers and secateurs are used for small stems, branches and roots and are ideal for use in hard-to-reach parts of the tree.

Climbing Ropes and Harnesses

Tree surgeons use climbing ropes, harnesses, pulleys and carabiners to work inside the canopy of the tree. With this safety equipment, they are attached securely to the trunk of the tree, leaving their hands free to operate a chainsaw and other tools.

Safety Helmets and Protective Clothing

Protective clothing and safety helmets are essential for tree surgeons. A chainsaw helmet incorporates eye protection in the form of a mesh or plastic visor and ear defenders to protect against the loud operation of a chainsaw.

Chainsaw trousers feature all-around leg protection. They are made from material that prevents the chainsaw from continuing to operate on contact by clogging the sprocket. Chainsaw, safe gloves and boots are also worn by tree surgeons.

Rigging Equipment for Controlled Branch Removal

Rigging equipment is used for the controlled removal of branches and sections of the trunk. It involves high-strength ropes, friction devices, pulley blocks, carabiners and slings to safely lower pieces of the tree to the ground.

This equipment allows the removal of branches and trunk pieces in a safe, controlled way, minimising the risk of injury or damage.

Wood Chippers for Disposing of Branches

A professional wood chipper makes short work of branches, stems and foliage. It’s a quick and efficient machine that reduces bulky waste to manageable piles of mulch, much of which can be put to good use in the garden.

Chippers come in various branch diameters and can be rented from local hire shops for DIY use.

Stump Grinding Machines

A stump grinder makes short work of tree stumps and some roots. It uses a vertically mounted metal disc powered by a robust motor. The disc is fitted with teeth that shred the wood of the stump by spinning at high speeds and can move up and down or side to side.

Stump grinders can be hired for DIY use, or you can pay for the machine and an operator to do the work for you.

Cutting down a holly tree is rarely suitable as a DIY job, especially if the tree is large. The dense branches and prickly leaves add to the difficulty of removing this type of tree. On the other hand, a small to medium holly tree or shrub can often be taken down with basic garden tools.

Additional Costs

As well as the holly tree removal cost, there are additional expenses that you may not have considered, including waste disposal, garden clean-up or cutting the trunk up into logs. Take a look at some of the extras that you should factor into your budget.

Stump Grinding or Stump Removal

The cost of removing a tree doesn’t typically include grinding or extracting the stump unless you specifically request that it’s added to your quote. Prices vary depending on the size of the stump, site access and your location, but can add an average of £150-£200 to your costs.

Extraction is also possible and involves using a mini excavator to dig out the stump. The cost to hire an excavator varies depending on its size, brand and your location. If you do dig out the stump, a void will remain, which will need to be backfilled with soil, adding to your costs.

Waste Removal and Disposal

Most gardening companies and tree surgeons will include waste removal and disposal as part of their services. However, it’s important to check your quote to see if this is included or incurs an extra charge.

The size of the tree will determine how much waste is generated, and this affects how much you pay for its removal and disposal. However, you can expect to pay around £50 to £150.

Garden Clean-up After the Tree is Removed

Removal of a holly tree will cause a certain amount of disruption and mess in your garden. While your tree surgeon or landscaper may take the waste away, there is invariably debris left lying around or, potentially, track marks on your lawn.

If you want your garden returned to a clean and tidy state after the holly tree removal, you may have to pay for a complete cleanup. Add an extra £100 to £200 to your budget for this service.

Cutting the Trunk into Logs

As holly makes excellent firewood once seasoned, you may want the trunk cut up into logs and perhaps split to accelerate the drying process. This is definitely an extra service and won’t be part of a typical quote.

When the tree has been dismantled in sections, you’ll already have the trunk in pieces. However, these are typically quite large and will need to be cut down further for seasoning and use as firewood. Costs vary, but an additional £50 to £100 should be anticipated depending on the trunk size.

Tree Inspections or Health Assessments

A tree inspection or health assessment can help you decide whether to remove a holly tree or not. You may have inherited a tree as part of a house purchase and be unaware of its health or stability.

A professional arborist will carry out a tree assessment, which determines its health, structural integrity and safety. The cost ranges from approximately £150 to £450, depending on your location.

A tree that is very tall or close to a building may need to be accessed via a cherry picker. Hiring this type of equipment costs around £300 per day, depending on your location within the UK.

Labour Costs and Timescales

Hiring a tree surgeon costs around £45 per hour on average. Day rates are approximately £375. It’s worth noting that tree surgeons work in teams of two to three people, so it’s likely that the labour cost will rise according to how many people you have on site.

Various factors influence the price and timescale of removing a holly tree, including its height and the density of the branches. The bigger the tree, the more expensive it is to take down. Size impacts labour costs as well as the time it takes to delimb the tree and cut down the trunk. Regional labour rates and the complexity of the work will affect the price that you pay.

Access to the tree contributes to the cost of removal. Restricted access or confined spaces mean that manual rather than mechanical removal is needed, pushing the price up. A tree that needs to be sectionally dismantled will cost more, as this method is much more labour-intensive and slow.

As noted, tree surgeons have colleagues that they work with for both safety and efficiency. So the number of people involved in the removal of a holly tree will directly impact your overall cost.

Typical timeframes for removing different sizes of holly trees are:

• Small holly tree: 1-2 hours
• Medium holly tree: 3-4 hours
• Large holly tree: ½ -1 day
• Very tall/dense holly tree: 1-1 ½ days

The largest part of the overall price for removing a holly tree is the labour. It is a very physical job, and the price typically reflects that.

Cost Factors for Holly Tree Removal

There are many contributing factors to the cost of a holly tree removal. Each project will have its own challenges, from a very dense tree to one that is located next to a building. Knowing what elements may increase your budget can help you be prepared and remove uncertainty about costs.

Tree Height and Canopy Size

Holly trees can grow tall, often reaching 10 to 12 metres in height. Lower branches have the famous prickly leaves that serve as a defence mechanism to stop animals from chewing the foliage and stems.

The upper leaves are often smooth, and the branches form a dense canopy that tends to be tangled and inaccessible. All of this makes the job of Holly a difficult one to tackle, adding to the price you pay for removal.

Trunk Thickness

Trunk diameter contributes to how much you pay to have a holly tree removed, as the thicker it is, the longer it takes to cut down. Lower branches, covered in spiky leaves, often have to be cleared away so that the trunk can be accessed.

If a holly hasn’t been regularly pruned, it can have multiple trunks and form more of a large bush than a tree. This adds to the time it takes to cut it down, increasing the cost.

Tree Location Within the Garden

If the holly tree is in an inaccessible area of the garden, it won’t be cheap to remove. A space that is confined or with structures nearby is tricky to work in for tree surgeons, which pushes the cost up. The work needs to be done more slowly or with manual tools rather than by mechanical means.

Access For Equipment

The ability to use mechanical equipment to remove a holly tree can reduce the cost of taking it down. The extraction can be done more quickly and with less manpower, lowering the price that you pay. On the other hand, if the machinery won’t fit in the garden, it will likely increase your costs because the work has to be done manually.

Safety Risks or Nearby Structures

When a tree is located close to structures such as your home, shed, garage, greenhouse or deck, the removal process has to be done more carefully to avoid damage. In many cases, this means using machinery is out of the question, and the tree has to be taken out manually.

A holly that is dead, diseased or damaged must be taken down carefully in sections, as these trees can fall unpredictably during a straight drop.

Waste Disposal Requirements

Unless you have a log burner, you’ll probably want your holly tree waste to be removed and disposed of. The size of the tree determines how much waste is generated, and the volume will influence the cost of disposing of it. Check each quote to see if waste disposal is included.

Stump Removal Requirements

Some people are happy to leave the holly stump in place and work around it. Others prefer to have it removed for aesthetic as well as practical purposes. Whichever method of removal you decide on, excavation or grinding, it will add to the cost of removing a holly tree.

Regional Labour Rates

Whenever you hire a tradesperson, it’s helpful to understand that regional labour rates vary. Prices are typically higher in London and the southeast, with the north of England and Wales generally costing less for labour.

When a holly tree is growing close to a fence or building, sectional dismantling is the usual method for removal. It ensures that the tree is taken down piece by piece, in a controlled manner and with no damage to the surrounding area.

Building Regulations for Holly Tree Removal

In some situations, removing a tree may require you to get permission. A tree preservation order (TPO) may be in place, or your property may be situated in a conservation area.

Tree Preservation Order

A tree preservation order is a legal restriction that protects a tree, group of trees or area of woodland. It prohibits the felling, lopping, topping, uprooting or wilful damage of trees without prior permission from the local authority.

TPOs can apply to any type of tree as long as the council has determined that it is of value to the local landscape. Ignoring a TPO is a criminal offence and can result in an unlimited fine if the case is referred to the Crown Court.

Trees in Conservation Areas

Any tree which has a diameter of 75mm or more is automatically protected in a conservation area. To do any work on these trees, you need to give the local council at least six weeks' notice and wait for permission to be granted. If you do the work without permission, it is a criminal offence, and you are liable for a fine.

Professional landscapers and tree surgeons are familiar with the process needed for working on TPO trees and those in conservation areas. They are also aware of all the Health & Safety regulations to be followed when removing a holly tree.

Types of Holly Tree Removal

There are three ways of removing a holly tree: straight felling, also known as a straight drop, sectional dismantling and mechanical removal. Let’s take a look at each method in detail.

Straight Felling

Straight felling refers to bringing down a tree in one piece by cutting it at the base. This method can only be used where there is sufficient space for the tree to fall safely and no structures or obstacles nearby. It is the most cost-effective method as the tree can be removed relatively quickly.

Pros

• ✔ Fastest way to remove a holly tree
• ✔ Costs less than sectional dismantling
• ✔ Ideal for large, open spaces
• ✔ Can be done by one person

Cons

• ✖ Requires an open area
• ✖ Not suitable for urban gardens
• ✖ Risk of damage if the tree falls incorrectly

The cost of straight felling a holly is around £250-£350 for a medium-sized tree.

Sectional Dismantling

Sectional dismantling involves cutting the tree down piece by piece, with each section being lowered to the ground by ropes and pulleys. The tree surgeon uses a safety harness and climbing ropes to remain secure while working in the tree.

This method requires at least two people, as someone needs to be on the ground to control the descent of the cut sections. It is used to remove trees in residential areas or confined spaces.

Pros

• ✔ The most controlled way of removing a holly tree
• ✔ Ideal for small gardens or close to structures
• ✔ Reduces damage on the ground with controlled descent
• ✔ Useful for dead, damaged or diseased trees

Cons

• ✖ More expensive than straight felling
• ✖ Time-consuming process
• ✖ Sections can be heavy
• ✖ Requires specialist climbing skills and safety training

Cutting a holly tree down into pieces is very labour-intensive. The specialist has to climb and then secure himself to the tree, rig the section with ropes and pulleys, cut through each piece with a chainsaw and, in conjunction with someone on the ground, lower the cut section carefully.

Not only is this a slow process, but it is also an expensive one. It is much more costly than straight felling at around £1,000 to £2,500.

Mechanical Removal

Mechanically removing a holly tree can be done with a grapple saw. This machine is a combination of a hydraulic chainsaw and a mechanical grabber arm. It’s a safe way of removing large or unstable trees as the operator can work from a distance, grabbing the tree, cutting through the trunk and moving it, all in one motion and from the safety of the vehicle’s cab.

Pros

• ✔ Fast, efficient method of tree removal
• ✔ Safe, as work can be done at a distance and from within the vehicle’s cab
• ✔ Complete control of the removal
• ✔ One operator can take out a whole tree in minutes
• ✔ No damage from unpredictable felling

Cons

• ✖ Very expensive method
• ✖ Needs a large open space and good access
• ✖ Requires a qualified operator

It can cost around £1,000 to £3,000 per day to hire a grapple saw and operator. Prices depend on location and the scale of the work.

Ultimately, the method of removal that you choose for your holly tree will determine the overall price and timescale for the work.

Alternative Options to Holly Tree Removal

There are alternatives to removing a holly tree in some situations. Of course, this won’t apply to all circumstances, but before you decide to fell a holly tree, take some time to consider if there is a different route you could take.

Tree Pruning

If the tree is large, unkempt and an eyesore, then perhaps a professional prune would make it a more attractive feature in your garden. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring. You can reduce the tree by as much as a third to bring it back to a more manageable size or appealing shape.

Crown Reduction

Holly will tolerate a hard prune, so crown reduction is possible as an alternative to removal. Reduction can be done in late winter to early spring, but also in June or July to preserve the berries. It should be done by a professional tree surgeon to protect the health of the tree.

Crown Thinning

Crown thinning involves removing smaller branches from within the canopy to make it less dense. Unlike crown reduction, it doesn’t affect the overall size of the tree but rather helps light and air get into the canopy, removes diseased branches and reduces wind resistance.

Hedge Trimming (if the holly is part of a hedge)

Holly is frequently used as a hedge shrub as it is evergreen, dense, and its prickly leaves serve as a deterrent to intruders. Trimming holly allows you to control its height and width as well as maintain a tidy perimeter in your garden.

All of these options let homeowners fix maintenance issues while allowing the holly tree to remain in place.

Hiring Contractors Checklist for Holly Tree Removal

Before hiring a contractor to remove a holly tree, there are certain questions you should ask and information that you should obtain. Below are some suggestions for a contractor checklist that you can use to make sure you hire the right person for the job.

Obtain Several Quotes to Compare Prices

For any work in your home, it’s important to get at least three quotes so that you can compare prices. It also lets you gauge what the average cost is likely to be for the method that you choose. Make sure when comparing quotations that you are weighing up like-for-like.

Check Qualifications and Experience

Verify the qualifications and relevant experience of the professional that you are considering hiring. Accreditation comes from the Arboricultural Association, and most contractors will display their logo on their paperwork and website.

Confirm Public Liability Insurance

Anyone working in your home should be adequately covered by public liability insurance and have professional indemnity insurance. They should be able to provide you with proof of cover.

Ask Whether Waste Removal is Included in the Price

Most professional gardening and tree services offer waste removal as part of their business. However, it’s important to check whether the removal and disposal of your tree waste is included in the price that you’re quoted.

Check Customer Reviews and Previous Work

Previous client feedback gives you insight into the reputation of contractors as well as their professionalism, quality of work and reliability. Check their websites and social media to see if they are someone you can work with.

Ensure the Contractor Understands TPO Regulations

Tree surgeons and professional landscaping contractors should have a thorough understanding of TPO regulations as well as the restrictions on working on trees in conservation areas.

Confirm Equipment and Access Requirements

Ask contractors about the type of equipment they will need to bring onto your property and their access requirements. For machinery such as mini excavators or stump grinders, enquire about the use of heavy-duty ground protection mats.

Removing Holly Tree Stumps

Once the holly tree has been cut down, you will be left with the stump. Some people want the stump removed, and there are three ways of doing this.

Stump Grinding

The fastest and most efficient way to remove a stump is to use a stump grinding machine. It chews through the wood, leaving behind a clear area that can be replanted with whatever you want.

Full Stump Removal

The stump can also be completely removed by using a mini excavator. Don’t forget that this will leave behind a large hole that will need to be backfilled with soil.

Chemical Stump Treatment

Using chemicals to kill off a stump is the slowest method and can take months to be effective. Chemicals may leach into the soil, although there are natural remedies such as Epsom salt, rock salt and nitrogen-rich fertiliser that can also be used.

The cost of removing a stump will add to your final bill, but it leaves a tidier space and allows the immediate replanting of the area.

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