Tree Topping vs. Tree Pruning
Tree topping should NEVER be confused with proper pruning.
A topped tree is easy to spot - the tree's natural shape is destroyed, while a properly pruned tree often looks as if no work has been done at all. With proper pruning, an arborist will spend time carefully selecting and removing branches. Careful, selective pruning retains the tree's natural shape and beauty.
Proper pruning is an important part of caring for and protecting the health of your trees. Homeowners should start pruning their trees early on and continue proper pruning throughout the life of a tree.
Tree Topping Myths
People top trees for many reasons, all of them associated with falsehoods and misconceptions.
Myth: Topping a tree will reduce storm damage and make the tree easier to maintain.
Truth: Topped trees can regain their original height quickly - often in two years. The fast growing, extremely long and weakly attached shoots resulting from topping are more susceptible to breakage and storm damage. Ultimately, a topped tree requires more attention in the future than a properly pruned tree.
Myth: Topping invigorates a tree.
Truth: Topping immediately injures a tree and starts it on a downward spiral. Topping wounds expose the tree to decay and invasion from insects and disease. In addition, the drastic loss of foliage starves the tree, which weakens the roots, reducing the tree's structural strength. While a tree may survive topping, its life span will be significantly reduced.
Myth: Topped trees will add value to your property.
Truth: Topped trees lack natural beauty and may actually reduce your property values. Also, a topped tree can become hazardous and cause property damage, making it a liability.
There are Alternatives to Topping
As a homeowner, you must educated yourself and make wise choices to protect your home and property - including your trees. A tree is a valuable asset. As a long-term investment, trees require careful decisions and the occasional advice and service of a professional.
Ryan Lawn and Tree takes pride in its arborists certified by the International Society of Arboriculture. Contact us if you have any pruning needs or need help caring for the health of the trees and shrubs in your landscape.
Give us a call or request a proposal and experience The RYAN Advantage for yourself