Are you thinking of how to deal with that tree that has grown too tall? You may want to lop off some of the branches at the top, an approach known as tree topping. It sounds like the perfect solution for an overgrown tree, but ask any experienced arborist and they’ll tell you it’s a bad idea.
What is tree topping? Why is it bad for your trees? Collierville’s expert arborist covers all the details in this post.
Tree Topping Explained
Tree topping is exactly as the name implies. It’s when you cut the top of a tree off, reducing the tree’s remaining branches to stumps. Property owners top trees for various reasons, including the following:
- Their tree canopy is now too large for its surroundings
- The tree has grown into electrical wires and other critical structures
- The tree is blocking sunlight from reaching the rest of the landscape
- The tree has blocked off a nice view
- The tree looks unstable
Generally, all of these are good reasons to do something about the tree. However, tree topping is not the right choice in many cases.
How Is Tree Topping Harmful to Trees?
Tree topping is harmful to trees in the following ways:
- Loss of leaves. Crown reduction through topping removes lots of leaves in one fell swoop. This makes it harder for your tree to produce food through photosynthesis.
- Increased weakness. Tree topping forces the tree to grow new limbs quickly. Unfortunately, these limbs are often weaker than the ones they replaced.
- Increased risk to tree health. The wounds from where the limbs were cut often become easy entry points for pathogens and insects. So, a tree that was formerly healthy can become sick.
What is tree topping? It’s an approach in arboriculture that will give you short-term satisfaction right now but cause you long-term pain. It’s a dangerous approach, even in forests. So, pump the brakes before you use it as a means of growth regulation.
How Can You Avoid Tree Topping? What Is the Alternative?
The best way to avoid tree topping is to only plant trees that won’t grow too large over time. You can discuss the tree size with an arborist before you make your choice at the nursery. If you already have an overgrown tree, there’s an alternative to tree topping.
Your arborist can recommend a carefully targeted approach to branch reduction. This involves strategically pruning the tree in a way that will reduce the tree’s height without changing its natural form. An experienced arborist will know which branches can be safely pruned and which ones to avoid.
Additionally, they’ll provide tips to help you care for the trees and keep pests and diseases away after pruning your tree.
Get Professional Help With Your Overgrown Trees From Your Local Experts
Are you wondering, “What is tree topping?” because you’re weighing options to reduce the height of your overgrown tree? Maybe you’re asking, “Should I remove a tree close to the house?” instead. We can help!
Call Spruce Up Tree Care in Collierville, TN, at (901) 833-8242 to schedule a consultation.
