Topping – Why we Don’t Do it! Advice from Primary Tree Surgeons

The expression to “top” a tree means to cut the tree’s branches off to the same length, flat across the top a bit like a crew cut for the tree.  With an understandable lack of technical knowledge about tree, some people start out thinking this is just what they need!

Sadly, the practice is both unhealthy for the tree and leaves a very odd looking specimen which often looks plain “wrong”, leaving lifeless stubs in place of the tree’s canopy.

Topping differs from healthy pruning in that it ignores and inhibits the tree’s own healing capabilities.  Kelby Fite, from Bartlett Tree Experts research labs says:

“The tree has natural defence mechanisms for compartmentalising decay.  Proper pruning techniques use the inherent properties of the tree to our advantage.  When topping, you eliminate the tree’s ability to wall off or stop rot”.

So, is topping on the increase?  It is tempting in harsher economic times to go for an apparently “cheap” option for your tree works.  The irony is that whilst some customers might want to top the tree to minimise perceived safety risks, the eventual rot and disease that gets into the tree can make it much less safe in the long term.  

Ultimately, if a tree is simply too big for it’s location, it can never be pruned to the “right size”.   It’s not possible to keep a tree that wants to be 80’ tall “small”!   But there are certainly much safer and effective ways to prune a tree, including regular pruning of a younger tree, that will allow it to remain a beautiful asset.

Please call Andrew on 07771 883061 or 01256 817369 for advice, or a free and detailed quote.