Menu

Our Reviews
Stephen Delbridge
google

The service for Driscoll Tree Service was outstanding. Michael came out to meet with me, explained the pros and cons of how to deal with my tree removal, and provided a clear quote for the service. The crew that came out to do the work was on-time, professional and did a great job. One of the trees they had to remove was tall and in a spot where they couldn't get any heavy equipment to it, but they were able to take it down in pieces without damaging my landscaping or fence. If you are looking for a professional and competent tree service,  I definitely recommend calling Driscoll Tree Service.

Ryan Hunt
google

Driscoll Tree Service and its team are professional, friendly, and excellent at tree removal. Their prices are the best. We had them remove a completely dead tree and a super large branch. For both experiences, they came out fast and did an Incredible job. Highly recommend.

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
Dec 15,2023
Common Land Clearing Mistakes You Should Avoid

Common Land Clearing Mistakes You Should Avoid Land clearing is an essential step in many residential and commercial development projects, whether building new infrastructure, expanding urban areas, or creating agricultural fields. However, the land-clearing process can be overwhelming, increasing the…

Read More
blog1
Aug 03,2022
Three Signs You Are Overwatering Your Trees

Three Signs You Are Overwatering Your Trees Are you having a problem with your trees? Driscoll Tree Service can help to inspect every tree in your yard and recommend solutions to maintain healthy and robust trees. A common tree problem…

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
Mar 14,2024
The Hidden Dangers of Bagworms

The Hidden Dangers of Bagworms Bagworms are a type of moth larvae that can wreak havoc on trees and shrubs, causing severe damage and premature tree removal projects. Despite their small size and discreet appearance, these pests pose hidden dangers…

Read More
blog1
Sep 24,2025
How to Choose the Right Tree Company

It should go without saying that when it comes to caring for your trees, hiring a professional is always the smarter choice. Whether you’re dealing with routine trimming, storm cleanup, or a full tree removal, the risks and complexities make…

Read More
blog1
Sep 06,2022
Will Pruning a Diseased Tree Help It Survive?

Will Pruning a Diseased Tree Help It Survive? Detecting signs of deterioration in your trees can be quite frustrating, especially if irreversible. Luckily, scheduling routine maintenance inspections with a professional tree care company helps detect trivial signs of infection or…

Read More
blog1
Jun 12,2025
Why Regular Tree Maintenance Is Essential for a Healthy Yard

Why Regular Tree Maintenance Is Essential for a Healthy Yard It’s easy to take trees for granted. Most homeowners would never skip a doctor’s appointment or ignore their pet’s annual checkup, but routine care often slips through the cracks when…

Read More
blog1
Jan 25,2024
What Exactly Is an Arborist Report?

What Exactly Is an Arborist Report? Trees are a valuable addition to our environment, providing oxygen, curb appeal, shade, and a habitat for various species. However, when it is time for tree removal, especially protected ones, there are legal and…

Read More
blog1
Feb 01,2024
Can You Cut Your Neighbor’s Overhanging Tree Branches?

Can You Cut Your Neighbor’s Overhanging Tree Branches? Neighborly conflicts are common among many homeowners, the most common being trees or branches hanging from the neighboring yard. If you’ve asked your neighbor to remove the branches with no luck or…

Read More
blog1
Sep 04,2024
Is it Possible to Minimize Storm Damage to Trees?

Is it Possible to Minimize Storm Damage to Trees? Trees play a critical role in our environment, providing many benefits like shade, oxygen, and beauty to our landscapes. However, they can also be vulnerable to the destructive forces of nature,…

Read More