Why Tree Topping is Bad

What is Tree Topping?

Topping is the cutting of limbs, back to a stub. Homeowners who do this to their trees, do not realize the consequences. Not only is it the most harmful tree pruning practice known, but it is also ends up being VERY expensive in the long run.

The best way to describe tree topping is like trimming your fingernails by cutting off your hand, somewhere between your wrist and your elbow. Of course, this is drastic, but I think we get the point across.

Topping is not a recognized or accepted tree care practice within the industry, and topping only solves a short term problem, often with unforeseen long term consequences.

Take for example, the photo above. Why was this tree topped? This tree was in the middle of a yard, posing no threat. I can assure you, this tree will never regain it's full health and natural vitality.

In fact, this tree has received a death sentence. The indiscriminate cuts will have a tendency to decay faster and new growth shoots will be greater in number, but weakly attached, making them more prone to failure.

Prior to topping, the tree's branches and limbs were strong and healthy. Hereafter, there will be numerous weakly attached limbs. And by the way, this tree is ugly now. Who would argue?

This is by no means a weight-reduction tactic either. There will actually be an increase in limb weight within a few years. Also, where the nubs begin to grow new shoots, this is an ideal environment for wildlife habitat, such as squirrels. These squirrel's nests will have a tendency to hold in moisture which can lead to decay.

The actual cost of topping a tree can last for years. First, there is the cost of the actual topping, or as I like to refer to it "The issuance of the death sentence".

Once failure and decay have set in, there will be another cost for removal and cleanup.

Homeowners who pay for this type of service must be real good friends with their current tree contractor, because once a tree is topped, they will inevitably return to carry out the rest of the death sentence.