How are my Trees Categorised in a Tree Survey?

Have you wondered how are your trees categorised in a Tree Survey? As part of all our tree surveys (or any survey that is completed to the British Standard 5837:2012), we categorise trees into one of four categories.

Category A

Category A trees are trees of high value. These trees are good examples of their species – they may be particularly visually impressive, be good habitats for birds or other wildlife or have other ecological or conservation value. Category A trees (especially when there is a high concentration of Category A trees in a small geographic area) are most likely to be subject to a Tree Protection Order. Tree Protection Orders can also cover a geographic area instead of being applied to a single tree and a high concentration of high-quality trees is likely to lead to a blanket TPO being applied to that area.

Category B

These are trees that are of moderate value. These trees are generally healthy and have some material or conservation value.

Category C

If a tree is Category C, it is of low value. These trees may offer some landscaping or visual benefits but are trees that have low growth potential or are not suitable for the local environment. These trees may be foreign varieties that have failed to thrive, or trees that are overmature and at the end of their life. All young trees are automatically categorised as category C trees; however, a comment should be made confirming this, so these trees are not accidentally removed.

Category U

Category U trees should be removed straight away – these are trees with irremediable defects, structural weakness, trees with infectious pathogens, trees that are inhabited by pests or trees that are already dead.

These four categories are used to provide a quick, easy way for you to assess the health of your trees. By having an assessment of your trees completed, you can complete a health-check on your trees and ensure that they remain healthy instead!

Why not find out more about ProHort’s Tree Survey service by visiting our services page?