Should Trees be Topped When You Prune Them?

I am doing some winter pruning. Should I “top” my trees to prevent storm damage?

Answer: Topping trees, or cutting off the top of the tree and/or any large branches that could become a growth leader, usually into “stubs,” actually can harm your tree, rather than help it. The new growth that will sprout from the stubs will be weaker, and more easily damaged by storms and wind.

Topping trees can essentially cause your once strong sturdy plants to not just deteriorate, but die as a result of not being able to repair the damages of the deeply cut branches.

Storm damage is a risk that our lush, branchy trees face; however, trying to prevent harm to our trees, through topping, can result in more injury. Furthermore, once the storm-damaged tree tries to recover, with out proper nourishment and resources, that recovery is hindered. Your trees need their foliage to help nourish any regrowth, and topping trees can reduce the amount of foliage produced.

In conclusion, topping trees to prevent storm damage, is not a safe solution and could potentially result in even further destruction of your trees. Recovery of topped trees, usually never is 100 percent and your tree may never regain the original stunning, vivacious beauty it once possessed.

Image: Berean Hunter
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:WinterInterestCrepeMyrtle02.jpg
_________________________________________
Enhance your knowledge of trees and shrubs with Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs.

Peruse through tons of valuable tree tips by downloading the Horticulture Smart Gardening Techniques: Trees.

Skim through more than 100 universal gardening “dos and don’ts” in Decoding Gardening Advice.

Escape to an era where life was simpler in Back to Basics and discover the pleasures of a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Keep the birds of your trees coming back for more with this hip-roof feeder.