Many arborists would rather avoid tree topping, but some property owners unwittingly encourage this destructive approach.
Will a topped tree grow back? As the best tree service in Merritt Island, Florida, our team at Redwines Tree Service explores the purpose of tree topping and whether the top will return.
What Does Tree Topping Do?
When a tree service professional tops a specimen, they major branches away from the trunk. They may also shorten the trunk from the top. Previously, these services used tree topping as a way to control tree growth, especially when it threatened roofs, powerlines, and other structures.
Myths About Topping Trees
Some property owners still cling to outdated myths about this pruning method. For example, they might think that the practice eliminates excessive leaf fall during autumn. After all, who wants to waste weekend hours raking leaves off their lawns?
They might also subscribe to the myth that topping trees reduces the dangers of falling trees. However, a topped tree sprouts more leafy regrowth to make up for its structural losses. The structural damage can also increase breakage and fall risks.
Avoiding Tree Topping
Educated, experienced arborists will typically avoid topping specimens. Instead, they use practices that protect tree health and encourage structural security. Alternatives to tree topping include:
- Annual pruning and trimming to limit branches that endanger structural integrity
- Crown shaping, which makes the crown look more uniform and attractive
- Crown reduction to prevent the highest branches from interfering with manmade structures
Harmful practices like topping might make trees more susceptible to drought mortality and other deadly elements. So, will a topped tree grow back?
Will a Topped Tree Grow Back?
Yes, a topped tree will grow back if you take good care of it. Topped trees are wounded trees that require extra attention and nourishment to heal. If you accidentally topped a tree or discovered one on your property, start by contacting an arborist about how to promote healthy regrowth.
Tree recovery might involve:
- More frequent pruning: Trees harbor small, dormant growths called suckers or water sprouts. Traumatic injuries trigger these growths, which grow quickly and erratically. Consistent pruning keeps them in check while returning the tree to an attractive shape.
- Disease prevention precautions: Wounded trees can quickly attract pests, fungi, and bacteria. Proper wound dressing and preemptive disease treatments can limit the likelihood of deadly or contagious illnesses.
- Intensive nourishment: Treat your tree to deep watering and custom fertilizer blends when appropriate. Your arborist can analyze a soil sample to find out what nutrients your tree needs the most.
Many trees can recover with adequate aftercare. However, some specimens, like conifers, may never fully heal since they do not possess the ability to grow water sprouts.
Avoid Tree Topping With Redwines Tree Service in Merritt Island, Florida
Will a topped tree grow back? You might nurse it back to health with sufficient care and professional guidance.
Try Redwines Tree Service’s tree trimming and pruning in Merritt Island, Florida, instead. Call 321-615-1427 for a free estimate today.