We’ve all seen it: those trees that look like they’ve had a bad flat-top haircut, with stubby branches sticking out awkwardly. That’s tree topping.

Tree topping is a practice that involves cutting off the top portion of a tree’s branches. This method, once popular for controlling tree height, now sits on the ‘do not recommend’ list of every tree expert. The reason? The numerous negative impacts it has on trees.

The Drawbacks of Topping Trees

Aesthetic Impact: First off, it’s not a good look. Topped trees lose their natural, majestic form, leaving it with an unnatural, unattractive appearance, and are left with stubby branches.

Health Hazards: By removing a large portion of a tree’s leaf-bearing crown, topping can starve a tree. Leaves are essential for photosynthesis, the process through which trees produce food. A topped tree, desperate to regenerate its food source, will rapidly grow new shoots, which are often weakly attached and more prone to breaking.

Increased Vulnerability: Topped trees are more susceptible to disease and decay. Open wounds from topping are like flashing neon signs inviting diseases and pests, while the stress of the damage can weaken the tree’s overall health.

Why Is Tree Topping Outdated?

Tree topping was once a widespread practice, used for quick fixes like reducing a tree’s height to avoid power line interference. It was a quick fix for keeping trees away from power lines or buildings. But as we’ve evolved in our understanding of tree health, topping has been revealed to do more harm than good. Modern arboriculture focuses on techniques that preserve a tree’s health and natural structure.

Peninsula Tree Care’s Approach to Tree Health

At Peninsula Tree Care, we prioritize the health and natural beauty of trees. Instead of topping, we advocate for strategic pruning, a method that respects the tree’s natural growth patterns while managing its size and shape. Pruning, when done correctly, not only maintains a tree’s aesthetic appeal but also enhances its health and longevity.

Advocating for Better Tree Care Practices

As tree care professionals, we believe it’s our responsibility to advocate for practices that support the long-term health of trees. Moving away from harmful practices like topping is a step towards ensuring our trees continue to thrive for generations to come.

For those who care for trees, whether in urban or rural settings, we encourage you to seek alternatives to topping. If you’re unsure about the best approach for your trees, the team at Peninsula Tree Care is always here to provide guidance and expert care.