Are you looking at a tree on your property, wondering what steps you need to take to make sure it’s manageable? If you are considering topping your tree, please don’t!
Arborists and plant scientists agree that tree topping is bad tree management practice. What’s “topping” you ask? Topping is severely cutting back and removing large branches in a mature tree. Your goal might be to reduce the height and increase the safety of a tree, but topping does just the opposite.
Topping trees isn’t just unsustainable, it’s expensive over the long run. When a tree is cut back indiscriminately, it will respond by quickly growing multiple branch-like shoots that compete for dominance. The result is that you will get a bushy re-growth that will be the same size as the tree’s original height, but it will have many weaker branches.
As they grow and the shoots increase in weight, the branches of a topped tree become susceptible to breaking off during storms. They must be continually pruned to avoid potentially hazardous branch failures. Ironically, rather than creating a safer tree, topping can actually create a greater hazard.
Topping alternatives
If it’s necessary to lower the height of a tree on your property, always consult a certified arborist for tree care. An acceptable method of pruning to reduce the height of a tree is called a reduction cut. This technique involves cutting branches back to a lower branch fork that is at least one-third the diameter of the limb being removed. When done correctly, the lateral branch is strong enough to outgrow the branches below it and the tree will maintain its natural form. The technique is not appropriate on single-leader trees (like evergreens) unless it is to remove multiple leaders.
Remember, that as trees grow, they develop structure and strength in response to their environment. While trees can fail due to disease, insect infestation or human-caused activities, a tree will not fall over just because it is tall. If you are concerned with the health and safety of your tree, call a certified arborist to assess its condition.
Certified arborists and other legitimate landscape professionals do not practice tree topping. If problems caused by a tree cannot be solved through acceptable management practices, the tree should be removed and replaced with different tree or plant material more appropriate for the site.
Before you plant a new tree, think about how big it will be when mature size (both the height and the breadth).
For more information on tree care, go to DNR’s Urban and Community Forestry Program website.
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