There are many times that trees and and/or their limbs need to be removed, such as when they are dead, dying or diseased.  Other times include when they are growing into power lines or pose a serious threat to life or property, otherwise trees can be left alone for wildlife habitat, conservation and beautification for all to enjoy.  It is best to take the tree down entirely if views, solar collection or fewer trees are wanted, because the health and life span of tree will be greatly reduced from improper pruning

the tree, such as topping. Topping creates disease, starvation, weaker limbs and economic loss to the property from eventual tree removal and lower property values. Here are a few thoughts on proper tree size reduction with tree pruning.

When a decision is made to reduce the size of an older tree, it can a be topped, or it can be pruned properly. Although the speed and nature of re-growth will depend on species and local factors, any comparison between irresponsible topping and competent pruning will be dramatic. Qualified Arborists use ‘crown reduction’ to control height when necessary. Selected limbs are removed at their junction with the trunk or a limb at least 1/3 the diameter of the removed limb.

Year 1: The topped tree is an ugly stub and a remnant of a once lovely tree. If pruned properly, the tree’s size is reduced but form and beauty are retained.

Year 3: Vigorous sprouts have sprung out of the topped tree in large numbers and are growing with abnormal rapidity. The pruned tree adds growth, but it does so more slowly and distributes it more normally.

Year 6: In a relatively short time, the topped tree is as tall – and far bushier and more dangerous – than it was to begin with. The properly pruned tree is safer, more beautiful, and its size is better controlled.

For more information and materials on “Proper Tree Size Reduction” please contact RobertHawk at 586-4009 or 488-3848 or email him at “robert_hawk@ncsu.edu”