Small trees at front of house.

[Peter12]

Hello all, first post here.

We have what I thought was a small bush, at the front of our house. It turns out that they are 3 small trees intertwined, to appear as a bush. I've kept them pruned to an inverted pear shape, 2m 80cm high and around 1m 20cm at the widest point. The 3 trunks are 6cm, 12cm(Dogwood) and 15cm (Maple).

They are 1M away from the bay window at the front of our house, and we are on clay(Surrey). So the key concern here, is a potential for subsidence.

They surveyor did not pick up on the trees/bush when we purchased the property in early '15, it was about 1m 70cm high back then.

They are 2 Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) and 1 Field maple (Acer campestre).

My question is, should I simply continue to prune, reduce in size or take out completely?

As mentioned, my primary concern is not to cause any damage to our property. Bearing in mind, the bay window foundations are more shallow than the rest of the property.

Opinions greatly appreciated, thank you.

[Dan Maynard]

Surely a bush like that 1m from the bay window blocks all the light anyway?

 

I think the trouble with this question is to find a proper answer either wait till there is damage or do surveys, both of which cost far more than just removing the bush anyway.

 

Personally I'd make a plan for the garden which includes more appropriate trees in better locations, and get those planted and establishing. In a few years then take out the one by the window.

 

Otherwise in a few years you'll be posting to say you are worried about heave when removing trees 1m from the house.....

[Kylus Sylvestris]

I would keep the bush neatly trimmed, to your satisfaction, not withstanding the often over-egged risk of subsidence. In times of drought - water it!!