Tree Topping Kills Trees

When it comes to caring for trees, there is a common practice known as tree topping that many people still mistakenly believe is a beneficial way to manage tree growth. However, tree topping is actually harmful to trees and can have serious long-term negative effects on their health.

Tree topping, also known as crown reduction or hat-racking, involves cutting off the top part of a tree’s crown, leaving behind just the trunk and a few large branches. This practice is often employed as a quick and cheap way to control the size of a tree or to remove branches that may be interfering with power lines or buildings.

While tree topping may seem like a simple solution for controlling tree growth, it actually causes a great deal of harm to the tree itself. When a tree is topped, it is essentially deprived of its ability to produce energy through photosynthesis. The process of photosynthesis occurs in the leaves of a tree, so when the top of the tree is removed, the tree is left with a greatly reduced ability to produce food and energy for itself.

In addition to the negative impact on the tree’s ability to produce energy, tree topping also opens up the tree to a host of other potential problems. The large wounds left behind by the cuts made during tree topping are essentially open invitations for pests and diseases to enter the tree and cause further damage. Furthermore, the rapid growth of new shoots that often follows tree topping can result in weakly attached branches that are prone to breaking off in storms or high winds.

Overall, tree topping is a harmful practice that should be avoided at all costs. Instead of resorting to tree topping, it is important to consider other more sustainable ways to manage tree growth, such as regular pruning by a certified arborist. By taking care of trees in a responsible and thoughtful manner, we can ensure their health and longevity for years to come.