What is “Topping”?
Sometimes the branches of a tree are in the way of the power lines, so arborists for hire (sometimes untrained) are directed to clear the lines. If a tall-growing tree inadvertently has been planted directly underneath the lines, sometimes they are “topped”. This refers to the unskilled practice of removing or severely cutting back large limbs using a chain saw so that only large, unsightly stubs are left.
The practice is similar to flat-top shearing of a hedge, but topping disfigures trees by creating heavy stubs out of proportion to the tree. Crabapple LandscapExperts NEVER top trees, but recommend selective thinning and limb removal of branches, a practice often accomplished over a number of years, to bring down the height of a tree. In other cases, we recommend complete removal and replanting with appropriate, lower-growing plant choices.
A similar practice the LandscapExpert Team abhors is as “Crape Murder”. Sometimes unknowledgeable crews top Crape Myrtles in order to stimulate new growth with resulting heavy flowering on new wood. This leaves an unsightly shape, and sometimes knobs calluse and build up over the years. The pity is, graceful, untouched Crape Myrtles also bloom reliably.
This practice calls to mind the Group on Facebook called “Crimes Against Horticulture.”