Gardener looking to expand

[Stottay88]

Hi, 

 

I have read a lot from this page over the past couple of years and everyone seems helpful so I’ve signed up and am looking for advice in the following. 
 

Basically I’ve been self employed carrying out garden services (one man band) for a year now. Recently I’ve had a couple of customers requesting for tree reductions and removals (12-14ft). I do have experience doing this on family property but that’s all apart from tree pruning. I’ve looked at a couple of courses to get me qualified in felling trees (I only plan on working with small tree’s).

 

Would this be easy enough for me to do and also would liability insurance in this field be easy to obtain? I enjoy learning and would like to (excuse the pun) branch out to more tree related work and just looking for the safest and legit way of doing so. I’ve always taken into consideration more waste, vehicle upgrade, chippers)
 

Thanks,

Edited July 21, 2023 by Stottay88

[Brad-bmtc]

The best way forward would be to find a firm or 2 to Subbie to, you will learn more by watching and being involved in the processes than anything in college, just basic tickets ie maintenance felling climbing will do for you, there a tick in the box and will show you the safe practices but don’t teach you how to do the job. As for liability insurance it’s not as much as you think. I’m a one man band and use 4 different subbies, and they have much the same set up amd I sub to them also. although I don’t employ anyone still need employers liability insurance. Don’t spend a shit load on gear in one go as you can spend a lot on gear that you won’t need very often 

[Stere]

If  trees are only 12ft 14ft a jap tripod ladder and a silky saw & loppers etc   and a cheapo saw like a ms181 is all the kit needed?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited July 22, 2023 by Stere

[Dan Maynard]

I was going to say get the basic chainsaw maintenance crosscut and fell tickets, it's a fun course and it'll make you safer with a saw. For hedges, small trees etc crack on - anything bigger then make friends with local tree surgeons. You won't have the gear or people to make it efficient, makes a lot more sense to collaborate.

 

I know a few people now that do lawns, gardens, when people ask me about gardening I just refer them because I don't know anything about it, likewise they refer me trees.

[Whoppa Choppa]

Eat more.