When it comes to tree care, topping is a practice best left off the menu. While it may seem like a quick fix, topping actually causes a host of long-term problems that leave trees structurally weak, unsightly, and throws them into health decline. Let’s break down why topping is bad for trees and what should be done instead.
1. Weakly Connected Branches
Topping forces a tree to respond with rapid new growth, but these new branches are poorly attached and structurally weak. Instead of a strong, well-formed canopy, the tree produces clusters of thin, fast-growing shoots that are much more likely to break in wind or storms. Even as these shoots grow in girth, their weak attachment remains, making them a persistent hazard prone to failure. This not only creates an immediate hazard but also leads to significantly higher maintenance costs. Once a tree has been topped, the hazard of weakly attached limbs has been created, and the only way to mitigate this risk is to continue topping it regularly, trapping the tree in a cycle of decline and ongoing expense.
2. Slow but Inevitable Decline
Arborists agree—topping is the beginning of the end for a tree. The severe cutting removes a significant portion of the tree’s food-producing leaves, causing stress and triggering decay. Some trees succumb to this stress quickly, while others decline gradually over years. Either way, topping significantly shortens the lifespan of a tree.
3. The Right Tree in the Right Place
The best way to avoid the temptation to top a tree is to plant the right species in the right location. Trees that grow too large for their space often become topping candidates, but the real solution is proper planning. If a tree is already in a poor location, the best option may be to remove and replace it with an appropriate species.
4. Proper Pruning Is the Answer
Instead of topping, trees should be pruned following industry best practices, which maintain their natural shape and health. Selective pruning removes problematic branches while preserving structural integrity, reducing future risks, and promoting a strong, healthy canopy.
A Sustainable Approach
Topping may provide an illusion of control over tree size, but it’s a short-sighted and destructive practice. Smart tree selection, proper placement, and strategic pruning lead to landscapes that require less maintenance and remain beautiful and safe for years to come.
So remember: no toppings! Trees, like good landscapes, thrive when they are well-planned and properly maintained from the start.