Tree topping means cutting the top of a tree straight across, leaving big stubs. It is one of the most harmful things you can do to a tree. It starves the tree, invites decay, and the new branches that grow back are weak and more likely to break. The right way to make a tree smaller is called crown reduction.
Topping is still common because it looks like a fast way to make a tall tree “safe.” In reality, it usually makes the tree more dangerous within a few years. Here is why, and what to ask for instead.
What tree topping looks like
A topped tree has its main branches cut back to stubs, often at the same height across the whole tree. You may also hear it called heading, hat-racking, tipping or rounding over. Within a year or two, dozens of thin shoots sprout from each cut.
5 ways topping hurts a tree
1. It starves the tree
Leaves make the tree’s food. Topping removes a large share of them at once. The tree has to use its stored energy to push out new shoots, which leaves it weak and open to insects and disease.
2. It leaves wounds that decay
A tree can seal off a cut made in the right place, just outside the branch collar. A stub cut in the middle of a branch has no way to close. Decay moves into the stub and down into the trunk.
3. The new branches are weak
The shoots that grow back after topping are only attached to the outer layers of wood, not anchored deep in the branch like normal limbs. As they get bigger and heavier, they break off more easily, often right onto whatever is below.
4. The tree grows back fast
A topped tree often grows back to its old height within a few years, but now with a thick tangle of weak branches. So the job has to be done again, and each time the tree is weaker.
5. It costs you more over time
Topping needs to be repeated, the decay often leads to removal, and a topped tree lowers the look and value of your property. Pruning it the right way usually costs less in the long run.
Dave’s tip
If a tree company offers to top your tree, that tells you a lot about the company. Get a second opinion.
What to do instead: crown reduction
If a tree is too tall or too wide, an arborist can make it smaller with crown reduction. Instead of cutting branches off in the middle, each one is cut back to a smaller side branch that can take over as the new tip. The tree keeps its natural shape, the cuts can close, and the tree stays healthy.
- Each cut is made back to a side branch that is big enough to take over.
- Only a small part of the leaves is removed at one time.
- The tree keeps its natural shape.
- The work is repeated less often.
Other options for a tree that is too big
- Crown thinning: removes some branches all through the crown to let wind and light through and lighten heavy limbs.
- Crown raising: removes low branches over a driveway, walkway or roof.
- Cabling and bracing: supports weak forks or heavy limbs. Read more in our guide to cabling and bracing.
- Removal: when a tree is simply too big for the spot, or is already decaying, removing it and planting the right tree may be the best choice.
Our crew follows industry pruning standards on every job. Learn more about our pruning, cabling and bracing service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tree topping ever okay?
Arborists do not recommend topping for shade trees. In rare cases, like a tree badly damaged in a storm, a careful restoration plan is used instead.
Can a topped tree be saved?
Often, yes. An arborist can choose the strongest new shoots, remove the weak ones and slowly rebuild a healthier shape over a few years.
What is the difference between topping and crown reduction?
Topping cuts branches off in the middle, leaving stubs. Crown reduction cuts each branch back to a smaller side branch, so the tree can heal and keep its shape.
Have a tree that is getting too big? Request a free estimate and we will show you how to make it smaller the right way.
