Tree Topping
January 18, 2023

Is it still recommended to top trees?

topped trees

Tree Topping

We get asked to top trees almost every day.  However, this is no longer recommended practice by the governing bodies.  Tree topping is bad because it is a severe form of pruning that removes the majority of the leaf-bearing branches and the upper portion of the tree. This can leave the tree with a dense growth of suckers at the base and few leaves at the top. This can cause the tree to become unstable, increase the risk of disease and insect infestation, and reduce the tree's ability to photosynthesize, which is necessary for growth and survival. Additionally, tree topping can cause the tree to grow multiple leaders, making the tree more susceptible to wind damage.
Be suspicious of anyone recommending to top your tree.  You could get away with it in the Winter, but you still might have problems.  And anyone saying they'll do it in Spring, Summer or Fall is trying to kill your tree for a profit.  Full blown tree removals pay the best.


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