Menu

Our Reviews
Karen Eddlemon
google

Efficient, Affordable, and Professional what more can you ask for in a company. I had a big tree in my yard that needed to be cut down. From the estimate from Michael and the actual job being performed by his crew, everything was satisfactory. Including the clean-up. They’re also licensed and insured so that made selecting for the job even more comfortable. I highly recommend Driscoll Tree Service for your tree removal.

Jennifer Ray
google

Michael came out to evaluate some trees I had with a questionable fungus on them, and ultimately the course of action was removal for a select few. He got me an estimate for the removal within a matter of days. They had the most competitive prices out of the other estimates I got. Michael is a very knowledgeable Arborist and you can tell he is passionate about his work. He wasn't pushy at all about the removal like some of the other companies I had come out, and he advised me on doing it in "phases" to fit my budget. The actual tree removal and stump grinding itself was so smooth and all the workers that came with the crane and stump service were very professional and communicative about what the process was going to be.

Schedule

Tree Removal Services Today

Get Appointment
sideimage

Why Topping is Harmful for Trees

Tree topping is often regarded as a controversial practice in arboriculture. This haphazard tree trimming exercise often causes severe disfigurement, compromising the overall aesthetics of your landscape. While tree topping offers a quick solution to manage excess growth and prevent potential hazards, arborists and environmentalists do not prefer it because of its detrimental effects on tree health, structural integrity, and overall aesthetics. If you have a tree pruning or trimming project, Driscoll Tree Service can recommend alternative techniques to promote vitality and longevity.

secondary

What Is Tree Topping?

Tree topping is a pruning method that involves cutting off large crown sections and leaving stubs or lateral branches behind. The aim of topping is reducing the size of a tree, managing its growth, or mitigating potential hazards, such as branches rubbing against power lines or structures. However, this tree-trimming technique is widely criticized by arborists and tree service professionals because of its devastating effects on the tree’s health and structure. Tree topping induces rapid production of weak branches called water sprouts, which are more susceptible to breakage and disease. In addition, topping increases vulnerability to stress, pests, and pathogens, compromising trees’ durability and aesthetic appeal. 

How Tree Topping Can Harm Your Trees

secondary

Tree topping might offer a quick fix for managing tree growth or addressing safety concerns, but it can have severe and lasting consequences for the health and vitality of your trees. Here are ways attempting this tree pruning method can harm your investment. 

Structural Damage

The most immediate and visible effect of tree topping is the change in natural structure. Topping removes large portions of the crown, disrupting the balance between roots and branches and affecting the tree’s ability to support itself. If you notice rapid growth of weakly attached new branches following a topping exercise, call a tree care company to assess structural weaknesses and recommend effective restorative strategies. However, severe damage may prompt tree removal to mitigate hazards in the future.

Stress and Decline

The shock and trauma inflicted on trees by topping often cause significant stress, leaving them more susceptible to deterioration. Topped trees use valuable energy to heal wounds and generate new growth, diverting resources from essential functions such as defense against pests and diseases. Chronic stress can weaken the tree’s immune system, causing health issues and unplanned tree removal emergencies. You can prevent these issues by working with a trusted tree service expert who can handle pruning and other maintenance practices. 

Tree topping poses significant risks to trees’ health, structure, and aesthetic value, especially when performed by inexperienced individuals. While it may offer a temporary solution to manage growth or address safety concerns, the long-term consequences outweigh any perceived benefits. Therefore, avoiding this tree trimming exercise and employing proper techniques that promote health, structural integrity, and sustainability are essential. Contact us at the Driscoll Tree Service and schedule a consultation with our team to learn responsible arboricultural practices. As a trusted tree care company, we can ensure your trees’ continued health and resilience for generations.

Other News

blog1
Apr 13,2023
Things That Might Kill Your Beautiful Trees

Things That Might Kill Your Beautiful Trees Homeowners strive to have a gorgeous yard with stunning trees. However, routine care is essential to maintain optimal health and longevity. At Driscoll Tree Service, we aim to help you keep your trees…

Read More
blog1
Mar 07,2024
Why Trees Are So Important to Your Community 

Why Trees Are So Important to Your Community  As Arbor Day approaches, it reminds us of the significance of trees in our communities. Besides aesthetic appeal, trees are vital in enhancing the quality of life for humans and wildlife. From…

Read More
blog1
Sep 18,2025
Why Hiring a Professional Tree Company Is Worth Every Penny

Let’s be real: times are tough. The economy has been a little shaky, inflation keeps nibbling away at paychecks, and a lot of homeowners are looking for ways to save money. That’s why DIY projects are more popular than ever.…

Read More
blog1
Aug 14,2024
How to Help Prevent Tree Pests 

How to Help Prevent Tree Pests  Trees are vital to our environment, providing many benefits like shade, oxygen, and beauty. However, they are also susceptible to pests that can cause significant damage and premature tree removal if left unchecked. Driscoll…

Read More
blog1
Oct 05,2023
6 Tree Pruning Tools Pros Use

6 Tree Pruning Tools Pros Use When caring for your trees, there is no room for compromise. Professional arborists understand the importance of using the right tools for the job. Whether it’s trimming branches for aesthetics or maintaining the health…

Read More
blog1
Aug 14,2025
The Lifecycle of a Tree: When to Call a Professional

Trees are some of the most fascinating living things on Earth. They can live for decades, centuries, and some even thousands of years. Trees go through a life cycle from tiny seedlings to towering giants. It's just as interesting as…

Read More
blog1
Jun 20,2024
What is Anthracnose?

What is Anthracnose? Trees enhance the quality of our environment, offering many benefits that improve the quality of life. However, they are susceptible to diseases, prompting the expertise of certified arborists. A common threat to these magnificent entities is anthracnose,…

Read More
blog1
Jan 10,2025
Learn About Hiring Forestry Mulching Services

Learn About Hiring Forestry Mulching Services Forestry mulching is the ultimate win-win for nature enthusiasts, landowners, and anyone looking to responsibly manage overgrown vegetation. This innovative process transforms trees, bushes, vines, and other plants into valuable mulch that not only…

Read More
blog1
Feb 17,2024
Caring for Your Tree’s Roots

Caring for Your Tree’s Roots Planting a tree is a long-term investment, as most trees take several years to grow to their potential. While there are many ways to maintain maximum health, such as tree pruning and trimming, managing its…

Read More
blog1
Jun 12,2022
Best Trees to Plant for Shade

Best Trees to Plant for Shade A good shade tree is a must if you live in an area where the temperatures tend to rise in the spring and summer. Choosing the right trees can not only offer a cool…

Read More