Why Tree Topping Hurts More Than It Helps

Tree topping is the drastic pruning practice of cutting tree branches back to stubs. This tactic is widely regarded by arborists and other professionals as harmful to trees and counterproductive.

Often done under the guise of reducing the risk of falling branches or controlling the size of a tree, topping is actually one of the most harmful tree pruning practices out there. It can severely weaken trees, making them more susceptible to disease, decay, and structural instability. 

Tree topping not only compromises the aesthetic appeal and natural shape of trees but also initiates a cycle of poor health and increased maintenance costs. 

In this blog, we’re exploring the negative impacts of tree topping, highlighting why this short-sighted approach to tree management does more harm than good, and what alternative methods can be used to ensure the health and longevity of our treasured trees.

What Is Tree Topping?

Tree topping is also called “heading,” “tipping,” “hat-racking,” or “rounding over” and is used to reduce the size of a tree to clear the view for utility lines, reduce shade and leaf debris, or reduce the risk of falling branches.

7 Reasons Tree Topping Is Harmful

Tree topping is widely recognized as a harmful practice that can lead to numerous negative consequences for trees.

Stress and Shock

Topping removes a significant portion of a tree’s leaf-bearing crown, which is essential for photosynthesis. This sudden loss of foliage can stress the tree, leading to various health problems for the tree that can also spread to surrounding trees.

Increase of Vulnerability

Cuts from tree topping are typically made in an arbitrary fashion without considering the tree’s health or natural structure. Open cuts on a tree are left vulnerable to pest infestation, fungus, and diseases.

Weak New Growth

The shoots that emerge after tree topping are fast-growing but weakly attached to the stubs or branches from which they sprout. This new growth is more prone to breaking off, particularly during high winds or heavy storms.

Increased Maintenance Costs

Due to the weak nature of the regrowth and the tree’s increased susceptibility to health problems, topped trees often require more frequent care and maintenance, increasing the long-term costs.

Shortened Lifespan

The severe stress and increased susceptibility to disease and decay as a result of topping can significantly shorten a tree’s lifespan.

Starvation

By removing the leaves at the top of a tree, topping severely cuts back on a tree’s ability to photosynthesize, effectively starving the tree by reducing its ability to produce food (sugars) necessary for its survival.

Irreversible Damage

Unlike proper pruning, which is planned and involves selective cutting, topping is often drastic and leaves lasting structural damage to the tree that cannot be reversed.

Planned, Professional Pruning Is The Answer

Overall, the practice of tree topping is highly discouraged within arboricultural and environmental circles due to its detrimental impact on tree health, aesthetics, and safety. The best way to ensure your trees stay healthy and your property is safe is by working with a professional like Beaver Dam Tree Service to prune and trim your trees.

Disease Prevention

Professional tree trimming involves our crew identifying diseased branches, which keeps the diseases from spreading to healthy trees and can preserve the health of your trees.

Structural Integrity

Selective tree trimming decreases the risk of branches breaking, falling, and causing damage when storms and high winds strike.

Improved Resilience

When your trees are properly pruned and regularly trimmed, they will be better equipped to handle harsh weather conditions and stay standing for years to come.

Invest In The Health Of Your Trees

Investing in professional tree trimming services instead of topping trees can save you a substantial amount of money in the long run, as well as ensure the health of your trees and property.

If you have trees that seem overgrown, unhealthy, or just want an opinion on the best way to prune and take care of your trees, give Beaver Dam Tree Service a call!

We operate within Kosciusko County, IN, and the surrounding area, including Winona Lake, so give us a call today to schedule your tree trimming!