Topping is the indiscriminate cutting back of tree branches to stubs or lateral branches that are not large enough to assume the terminal role. Other names for topping include “heading,” “hat-racking,” and “rounding over.”

The most common reason given for topping is to reduce the size of a tree. Often homeowners feel that their trees have become too large for their property. People fear that tall tress may pose a hazard. Topping, however, is not a viable method of height reduction and certainly does not reduce the hazard. In fact, topping will make a tree more hazardous in the long term.

Here are 5 key reasons why not to top trees:

• Topping Causes Decay
• Topping Can Lead to Sunburn
• Topping Creates Hazards
• Topping Makes Trees Ugly
• Hidden Costs of Topping

If you have any questions about topping trees or you would like to request a FREE estimate, contact us at 403-293-3416. We look forward to offering our expertise.