Whether it’s a tree that’s been sheared to allow clearance for power lines, or a poor crepe myrtle that’s been “murdered,” we’ve all seen the unfortunate realities of tree topping. But what’s so bad about it? And why, when the practice is pretty universally looked down on in the arboricultural world, is it still happening? 

Tree topping, also known as heading, stubbing, or dehorning, is the practice of drastically removing some or all of the large branches of a mature tree. Though "top" is in the name, the removed branches can come from any part of the canopy. They may be cut all the way back to the base, or they may just be chopped off at whatever point is needed to achieve a particular goal (like clearing way for utilities, removing visual obstruction, or even just reducing overall height to a certain range).  

​Obviously, trees need their leaves to survive. But you might not realize that, in order for a tree to thrive, it actually maintains a certain crown-to-root ratio designed to ensure it obtains enough nutrients both from photosynthesis and from the ground to support itself. The exact ratio will depend on the species, age, and size of the tree, but every tree has one. 

​Tree topping drastically upsets that ratio by removing a significant portion of the crown, thereby removing a significant portion of how the tree obtains nutrients. Not to mention its reserves for harder times!

With large sections of foliage removed, the tree will attempt to regrow that foliage through new growth shoots. These smaller, upright “water sprouts” are delicate and more susceptible to disease, which can easily spread to the rest of the tree. They also grow densely clustered together, disrupting the tree’s natural growth pattern. This can be unsightly, of course, but also creates an imbalance in distribution that can lead to structural failure later in the tree’s life.

On top of decimating a tree’s ability to gather nutrients, tree topping also exposes the tree to a variety of potentially devastating circumstances. The main problem is the wounds left behind from each cut. Normally, the tree would close, callus, or otherwise seal off the injury to prevent things like insects, fungi, and other decay from setting in. But when a large branch is fully cut off, the tree will no longer send nutrients to that branch, since there’s no foliage to support. Without those nutrients, the wound won’t close, and the injury will remain vulnerable to pests and decay that can easily spread to the rest of the tree. 

​Another concern is sun damage. When the normal canopy is removed, the remaining branches and trunk are left without protection from the sun and may get the tree equivalent of sunburnt!

As we mentioned, tree topping usually happens when trees grow too close to power lines or other utilities. In these kinds of public spaces, cost-effectiveness is usually prioritized over any individual tree’s wellbeing. Selective pruning, while better for the tree, is often more difficult and time-intensive (and therefore more expensive) than just using a pole saw to hack away the offending branches. Fully removing the tree can also be more time-intensive and expensive, which is why the topping option is chosen. 

Trees are also topped in situations where they are obstructing a view or casting shade where shade is not wanted. In such cases, selective pruning wouldn’t necessarily solve the problem the way that topping does, and so it won’t be chosen. 

Most homeowners that choose to have a tree topped are either trying to get some sun on their garden, or are worried that the tree in question is too tall and poses a threat to their home. They likely don’t even realize that topping is such a bad thing! That’s why we always recommend having your tree work needs reviewed by a Certified Arborist – someone who can warn you of the dangers, and recommend practices that can help you achieve your goals without hurting your trees! 

Have a tree you’d like pruned? Contact Classic City Arborists today to schedule a free quote!

Sources:
International Society  of Arboriculture

Phew, it’s getting hot outside! The first day of summer was June 1st, so the warmest season is finally upon us. But the summer solstice, also considered the first day of summer, isn’t until June 21st.

​So what gives?

The word “solstice” comes from the Latin solstitium, which means “sun stands still.” There are two solstices a year – one in summer, and one in winter. Both solstices are days when the Earth’s axis, or tilt, is aligned with the sun. In the winter, that alignment means we have the longest night, or the most hours of darkness. In the summer, it means we have the longest day, or the most hours of sunlight! 

In more temperate climates, the summer solstice is used to mark the middle of the season, and celebrated as Midsummer. In warmer climates, like here in Georgia, the solstice is often considered the first day of summer. 

​But what about June 1st, then?

You’ve probably heard that June 1st is the first official day of summer. In fact, you’ve probably seen it marked on calendars and announced by news anchors. This is because meteorologists divide the 12 months of the year into 4 equal seasons. They do this to make compiling and comparing climate data over the years easier to comprehend. The meteorological summer season is June 1st through August 31st. 

​But traditionally, and across a variety of cultures in warmer climates, the solstice has been seen as the real first day of summer.

​Either way you view it, the 1st or the 21st, summer is here. There are lots of things to keep in mind as we move into the hottest months of the year.

First, while the spring planting season is over, that doesn’t mean you can’t still get out in the garden! There’s a host of things you can plant during the hotter months. Check out our article on What to Plant This Summer to learn more. 

Second, and most importantly, we’ve already talked about impending summer storms. While hurricanes don’t usually reach us, they do tend to send lots of rain and heavy winds our way, which can easily topple a compromised tree. It’s important to keep your eyes on your trees this time of year, and our blog post on signs of decay can help you identify potential problem trees that may pose a higher fall risk. If you do see something concerning, or even something you just aren’t sure about, it’s best to call a Certified Arborist immediately. 

If you do, remember this is the busy season for your local tree services and certified arborists. In the summer, everyone is spending more time outside, looking at their trees, and calling their local arborists. We’re all working hard to get to everyone in a timely manner, usually while prioritizing emergency storm damage to keep customers and the community safe. Whether you reach out to us here at Classic City Arborists, or another qualified tree service in the area, please be patient. Together, we’ll makes sure your tree needs are taken care of.

Interested in scheduling a free quote? Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Sources:
NASA
The Old Farmer’s Almanac