The practice of tree topping is on the increase again in our area. Topping is cutting a tree to a certain height by stubbing the branches. This practice is extremely harmful to trees, and will lead to long term problems with tree health.

Topping is performed by untrained tree companies who care little about tree health management. It may take several years of corrective pruning to restore the tree’s crown. Topped trees are more susceptible to storm damage and branch failure.

Ironically, the main reason trees are topped is to make them safe. The exact opposite occurs. Please hire reputable Certified Arborists to prune your trees.