How to Correct a Topped Tree by Pruning?

Topping is so far the most destructive tree trimming and pruning practice ever done to the trees. This is even often considered as a serious crime against the nature and so many people and organizations are raising their voices against this torture. Topping is pruning the top level of a mature tree to the stubs in a uniform height.

Stress to Trees

When a tree is topped the entire leave bearing crown is completely removed. Leaves are the food sources of the trees, so when the leaves are removed the trees literally starve until new leaves grow and produce food.

It Does Not Control Size

When new shoots start to grow and start replacing the food production, they do it fast and send abundant water sprouts. In some of the species the new shoots can develop up to 20 feet annually. The trees start growing rapidly and will continue so until they reach their original size. It almost takes a few years to happen.

It Does Not keeps Trees Safe

The newly grown part that ascends from the buds below each of the cuts is anchored to the parent branch. With right and patience pruning, you can give life back to a topped tree.

Do You Need to Wait for Corrective pruning?

Before starting the repairing process, give the tree a little time. Once a tree is topped it grows thin limbs and sprouts. This is the way of the tree to regenerate its health and replenish the energy after a tiresome topping process. Let the sprouts grow for one to two years. It will give you a clear picture of sprouts to prune and when you can start the pruning process.

Frequency of Tree Pruning after Topping

Each tree has different responding time after being topped. So this would be difficult to outline the pruning schedule that is effective for all trees. The tree you have, the height it was trimmed won and the overall health are the few deciding factors.

A topped tree will only be trimmed once or twice a year or unless the tree gets a decent structure back. If you are worried about the tree structure, call arborists in your area and see when it needs tree trimming. Reach us at Clear Tree View Services for pruning, trimming or stump grinding.