Tree pruning to AS4373.
Crown lifts, crown reduction, crown thinning, deadwooding, and formative pruning across Melbourne. All work to Australian Standard AS4373 (Pruning of Amenity Trees).
AS4373 pruning for residential and council trees.
AS4373 sets out four pruning types for amenity trees: crown lifting (raising the lowest live branches), crown reduction (reducing overall canopy height or spread), crown thinning (selective removal of secondary branches to let light through), and selective pruning (removal of specific branches for clearance, safety, or formative shaping). We use whichever type the situation calls for, and explain why on the site visit.
We do not top, lion-tail, or remove more than 25% of live canopy in a single visit. These practices stress the tree, trigger weak regrowth, and shorten its life. They appear on cheaper quotes because they're quicker to execute. They're also the reason most trees we're called to remove ended up that way.
Pruning timing depends on the species, tree condition, flowering or fruiting cycle, the purpose of the work and forecast weather. The appropriate timing is confirmed for the individual tree rather than applying one seasonal rule to every species.
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Pruning is priced by complexity, not by tree.
A small ornamental might take an hour. A mature gum might take a day. Here's the range so you know what to expect.
These are Hilly's indicative ranges, not industry averages or a property-specific quote. Access, condition, equipment, approvals, disposal and the final scope can change the price.
Crown reduction, lift, or thin on an established mature tree.
- Full-day on site
- Rigging where needed
- AS4373 compliant cuts
The standard process.
You call or send a photo
We'll come back the same day with a site-visit time.
Free site visit
We look at the tree, talk through what's actually needed, and explain the difference between what you want and what the tree wants.
Written plan in your inbox
A clear scope, price, and timing. Usually within two business days.
Pruning day
Right cuts, right places, chipped and raked. The tree should look better, not different.
What the work looks like
Illustrative images of the technique. Photographs of completed Hilly's jobs are in the project gallery.
Regular work across Melbourne's east, south east, bayside and north.
The questions we get most.
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Learn moreBook a site visit.
Send the address, photographs and the work you are considering. We will confirm whether a site visit is needed and provide the scope and price in writing.