Kempster and Sons Tree Services

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Kempster and Sons Tree Services

Fully qualified and insured tree surgeon covering all your trees' and hedges' needs in and around Es

25/08/2026

Walnut prune at our local church this afternoon ✂️✂️

31/07/2026

A reminder that trees don’t always fail without warning.

Last year, we were instructed to carry out a professional tree inspection for a local events venue.

During our inspection, we identified significant structural defects, including extensive decay, large cavities and fungal fruiting bodies at the base of this mature willow. Based on the condition of the tree, our recommendation was that it should be removed as a matter of urgency due to the risk of structural failure.

After submitting our report, we heard nothing further.

This week, over a year later, we received a call to say the tree had suffered catastrophic failure.

Thankfully, no one was injured.

This particular tree stood in an area where people regularly gathered, including wedding parties using it as a backdrop for photographs. The timing could easily have been very different.

As arborists, our role isn’t just to remove trees—it’s to identify risks before they become incidents. Trees with internal decay can still appear healthy from a distance, which is why professional inspections are so important for landowners, schools, businesses, golf courses and public spaces.

We’re simply grateful that, on this occasion, the outcome wasn’t far worse.

If you’re responsible for mature trees on your property and have concerns about their condition, don’t ignore the warning signs. A professional inspection can provide peace of mind and, in some cases, prevent a serious accident.

27/05/2026

YOUR TREES ARE GROWING FAST… IS YOUR PROPERTY READY FOR SUMMER 🌞 🌳

Pruning • Reductions • Hedge Maintenance • Tree Removal • Stump Grinding

As we move into summer, now is an ideal time to keep on top of your trees and hedges:

✅ Inspect trees for dead, damaged or hanging branches after spring growth
✅ Trim fast-growing hedges before they become overgrown
✅ Remove low branches blocking pathways, driveways or roads
✅ Check trees for signs of disease, decay or structural issues
✅ Light pruning and maintenance work can still be carried out safely
✅ Always check for active nesting birds before any work takes place

Many people think tree work in summer is illegal — it isn’t. Trees can still be maintained responsibly where no active nesting birds are present.

26/05/2026

Well, I didn’t have to wait long for an example did I! 😮
I posted earlier about Summer Branch Drop — and today this happened right on my doorstep. A large lateral branch from an Ash tree came down in calm, sunny conditions. No wind, no warning. Just like I described.
This is exactly why it’s so important to think about the trees around us, especially mature ones close to roads, footpaths and car parks. The fact that nobody was hurt today was pure luck.
Please do share my earlier post if you haven’t already — people need to know this is a real risk. 🌳

25/05/2026

🌳 Summer Branch Drop — what you need to know.

During hot, dry spells trees can and do drop large branches without warning. This is known as Summer Branch Drop and it happens because trees shed branches to reduce water loss when they're stressed from heat and drought.

It doesn't need to be windy. It can happen on completely calm days.

A few things worth knowing:

🌿 It can happen to trees that look perfectly healthy
🌿 Large, horizontal branches are most at risk
🌿 Older and over-mature trees are more susceptible
🌿 It's more likely during or after a prolonged dry period

Trees also need a good deep soak during dry periods. A slow, thorough watering at the base of the tree helps reduce stress and can lower the risk of branch drop. A quick splash won't cut it — the water needs to reach the roots.

If you have trees on your property, check for any dead, cracked or hanging branches. If in doubt, contact a qualified arborist.

22/05/2026

🌳 OPM Alert — Oak Processionary Moth 🦋
Have you spotted silky white nests on oak trees, or caterpillars moving in nose-to-tail processions? It could be Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) — and it’s important to know the risks!
⚠️ Why it matters:
• The caterpillars have tiny hairs that can cause skin rashes, eye irritation, and breathing problems in people and pets
• They can seriously damage and weaken oak trees by stripping them of leaves
• Nests are most active from April to July
🚫 DO NOT touch the nests, caterpillars, or anything near them — even old nests can still cause irritation.
✅ If you spot one:
• Keep children and pets away
• Don’t try to remove it yourself
• Report it to your local council or the Forestry Commission
Spread the word — the more people know, the safer our community and our trees! 🌿

20/05/2026

Small willow stump removal in a small residential garden.

19/05/2026

3.5m reduction on this sugar maple in Hornchurch.

18/05/2026

MYTH: Tree work in summer is illegal ❌

FACT: Tree work can still be carried out, but active nesting birds must always be checked for first 🌳🐦
Facebook community pages are full of incorrect information.
Here are the facts ⬇️

🌳 Summer Tree Work – Clearing Up a Common Misconception 🌳

We often hear people say: “You can’t cut or remove trees in summer.”

This isn’t actually true.

Tree pruning and removals can be carried out throughout the year. The important factor is checking for active nesting birds before any work begins.

Under wildlife legislation, active bird nests must not be disturbed. This is why responsible tree surgeons always inspect trees and surrounding vegetation before carrying out works.

✅ No nesting birds present = work can usually proceed safely
❌ Active nesting birds found = work may need to be postponed or adjusted

Every job should be assessed individually rather than assuming all summer tree work is illegal.

At Kempster & Sons Tree Services, protecting wildlife while carrying out safe tree work is always a priority. 🌿

14/05/2026

Another big Leylandii taken down safely today in Romford.
Tight access, full dismantle, stump left ready for grinding.
Clean finish and plenty more light back into the garden 🌲☀️

Address

110 Thatches Grove
Romford
RM65LH

Telephone

07588575233

Website

http://Www.kempsterandsons.com/

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