Why is topping a tree bad?
Topping is the reduction of vertical tree branches to stubs or lateral branches that are not large enough to assume the terminal role or provide resources to remaining tissue. Topping often removes 50-100% of the leaf area within the crown of a tree. Since the leaves are of central importance to photosynthetic production within a tree system, this reduces the amount of sugars moved into the roots for storage and subsequent use in the event of injury (topping, insect defoliation or storm damage) leading to a negative feedback mechanism. The tree may develop new leaves and appear to be doing fine only to fall into a rapid spiral of decline. If a tree does not have the stored energy reserves for new leaf production, it will be seriously weakened and may die. There are times when a tree must be reduced in height or spread. Providing clearance for utility lines is an example. There are recommended techniques for doing this, please contact us for further information or a free estimate.
