Any reputable tree care professional will tell you that topping a tree isn’t a good practice. Topping not only consists of cutting back and removing large branches but severely damages the health and beauty of a tree in the process. While many times, homeowners may feel a tree has grown too large, tree topping is not a recommended tree care solution for a variety of reasons.
Starvation
The leaves on a tree produce starches during a process called photosynthesis. The tree then transfers these starches to its roots for storage before converting them into nutrients in order to grow and thrive. When a tree is topped, however, the leafy crown is removed thus rendering a tree unable to produce enough starch to stay healthy, leaving it to slowly starve over time.
Insect and Disease
Topping a tree can result in large, open wounds that are difficult to heal because of the location and the size of the cuts. Open wounds such as these are then susceptible to insect infestation, disease, and decay which can result in the death of a tree.
Weak Limbs
It’s important to understand that while new growth will occur, limbs that grow in from areas that were cut can become especially hazardous over time. This is because they are not attached to a parent branch. Instead, they are weakly attached to the tree without the support and stability they need, making them more likely to break off during a storm.
Rapid New Growth
While many homeowners choose to top their tree believing it will control its height and spread, topping actually causes it to do the opposite. When a tree is topped it causes rapid, new growth in a desperate attempt to heal itself. This can result in a taller, bushier and more unpredictable tree.
Appearance & Death
Plain and simple, topping results in an ugly, unsightly tree. Even with new growth, a tree will never look the same nor will it be a valuable asset to your home and property. Even worse, topping often results in the death of a tree, making it a hazardous threat which will need to be removed entirely.
Overall Expense
DIY tree care should never be attempted. In fact, topping a tree on your own can be especially dangerous. While it may seem like a cheap alternative to many tree care services the overall expense of topping a tree will be reflected in a lowered property value, future trimmings, removal and replacement costs when the tree eventually dies.
Contact Westcoast Tree Care
Topping a tree comes with a variety of risks that can become problematic and even hazardous in a small amount of time. By impacting its health, aesthetics and structural integrity, topping a tree can cause more long-term damage than you’d expect. That’s why it’s important to consider alternative tree care solutions and contact Westcoast Tree Care. Our certified arborist can provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation quote to help increase the safety and beauty of your trees. Call us at 1.800.767.8733.
