What is Tree Topping?

Tree Topping

Tree topping, or heading, is when too many healthy canopy branches are cut. Many areas across the United States prohibit this tree-killing practice, requiring tree service providers to register with their respective cities. While the authorities have taken measures to curb tree heading, DIYers can accidentally prune excess healthy limbs. You can avoid such scenarios by hiring a professional tree care company to handle pruning and maintenance.

Why Is Tree Topping Bad for Trees?

Property owners are under the false notion that cutting back much foliage-producing branches encourages fruit and leaf production, but it doesn’t! Tree topping has the opposite effect: it removes leaves, increases the risk of sun scald, creates a pathway for pathogens and pests, and increases susceptibility to wood rot and fungi.

Although some trees can recover from excessive pruning, most cannot. Different trees require varying pruning techniques to encourage healthy fruit and leaf production. Safe alternatives to tree topping include spiral thinning and canopy pruning, which can be performed by a tree care company safely.

How Much Should You Prune Your Trees?

If you prefer a more hands-on approach to tree care, don’t prune over 15% of your mature trees’ canopy and 10% of your young trees. The primary goal of pruning is to eliminate diseased, dying, or dead branches that threaten the health and structural integrity of the tree. Some signs of deterioration are unperceivable by inexperienced individuals, and that’s why pruning should be left to professional tree service.