Pronunciation: [pˈɒlɑːdɪd] (IPA) 
The word "pollarded" is spelled with three syllables: /pɒləd/. The first syllable starts with the "p" sound, followed by the "oh" sound, and the last "l" is silent. The second syllable is emphasized and starts with the "l" sound followed by the "uh" sound. The last syllable ends with the "d" sound. "Pollarded" is a past participle of "pollard," which means to cut the top branches of a tree to promote new growth.
Pollarded is an adjective that refers to the process of cutting back or pruning a tree or shrub to its main trunk or branch system. The term is derived from the word "poll," which means to remove or cut off. When a tree or shrub is pollarded, it is trimmed or pruned substantially, often to the extent that only the main branches or a "pollard head" remain.
Pollarding is a traditional practice used to manage and control the growth of trees and shrubs, particularly in urban environments, where space may be limited. This technique promotes regrowth and dense branching, resulting in a characteristic knotted appearance. The process is typically carried out during the dormant season, ensuring that the tree or shrub can recover and regrow in the following growing season.
The benefits of pollarding include increased longevity, as it prevents the tree or shrub from becoming too large and unstable. It can also produce a more manageable size, making maintenance and harvesting easier. Furthermore, the regrowth from pollarded trees and shrubs is often vigorous and can provide a renewable source of wood or foliage for various purposes, such as firewood, fencing, or basketry.
Pollarding is a skill that requires knowledge and expertise to ensure the tree or shrub remains healthy and continues to thrive. It is a technique that has been employed for centuries and continues to be practiced today for the management and conservation of urban green spaces.
The word "pollarded" can be traced back to the verb "poll", which has its roots in Middle English and Old French. The Middle English form was "polle", meaning to cut the hair or wool off the top of someone's head. It derived from the Old French "pol", referring to the same action of shearing someone's hair.
During the late 16th century, the term "pollard" emerged to describe a tree that has been cut back or pruned specifically by removing the top branches and upper portion of the trunk. This practice was common for various tree species, particularly willows and certain types of poplars, to promote the growth of new branches and foliage. Consequently, these pruned trees came to be known as "pollard trees".
