{"id":7259,"date":"2024-02-05T21:03:41","date_gmt":"2024-02-05T21:03:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bartlett.com\/blog\/?p=7259"},"modified":"2025-10-27T20:45:19","modified_gmt":"2025-10-27T20:45:19","slug":"tree-topping-hurts-trees","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bartlett.com\/blog\/tree-topping-hurts-trees\/","title":{"rendered":"Tree topping hurts trees"},"content":{"rendered":"

Tree topping is a method often used to reduce the size or height of a tree. With this method, the top of some or all of the branches from a tree’s crown are cut straight off, leaving large stubs. Unfortunately, tree topping hurts trees, causing stress and irreparable damage. Given the harm it can cause, this is not a practice we recommend.<\/p>\n

An Unhealthy and Unappealing Approach<\/h3>\n

Industry standards agree that tree topping is harmful. It destroys the natural shape and growth habits of a tree, which can never fully recover. Above all, a topped tree simply does not look good and the practice results in both short and long-term tree health issues.<\/p>\n

With correct pruning, cuts are made just beyond the branch collar. A tree is able to close such wounds to “wall off” decaying tissue. On the other hand, with topping, heading cuts are made. This method leaves stumps or wounds that the tree has no ability to close over.\u00a0 These wounds result in exposed wood that will begin to decay. As a result, insects and disease can easily attack the tree, further compromising its health.<\/p>\n

Another concern with topping is that it removes too much life-giving foliage from the tree. Removing too many leaves at once decreases the tree’s ability to produce energy through photosynthesis, ultimately starving the tree.<\/p>\n