Menu

Our Reviews
Chad Thibodaux
google

I was very impressed with how quickly and professionally they worked. They were in and out in an afternoon. They had to remove a giant Red Oak, and did so with great skill and speed. Their price is very affordable and beats out most of the competition around. I highly recommend Driscoll Tree Service. We will use them again for all of our future tree removal needs! Seriously, give them a call. They are awesome!

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
May 14,2025
Are Exposed Tree Roots Bad?

Are Exposed Tree Roots Bad? Exposed tree roots might look like an enchanting natural feature, but those gnarled “wooden serpents” at your feet are more than just a quirky accent of your tree. In fact, roots surfacing above the soil…

Read More
blog1
Jul 12,2022
Benefits of Planting Trees

Benefits of Planting Trees Out of all the things you can do to enhance the aesthetics and value of your property, planting trees is at the top of the list. However, planting trees has many benefits, including social, environmental, and…

Read More
blog1
Jul 07,2024
Debunking Common Myths About Tree Removal

Debunking Common Myths About Tree Removal Trees are magnificent entities that provide many advantages. However, different circumstances like disease, infestation, landscaping needs, or severe damage may prompt tree removal services. While healthy greenery is an asset for property owners, when…

Read More
blog1
Dec 28,2023
Most Interesting Facts About Trees

Most Interesting Facts About Trees Trees provide more than just clean air for the planet; they are entities that have been around for many years, bearing witness to Earth’s rich history. As a professional tree care company, the Driscoll Tree…

Read More
blog1
Sep 13,2023
Yellow Leaves in Summer

Yellow Leaves in Summer The sight of trees adorned with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow during fall is a natural spectacle that always captivates. However, when those same trees display yellow leaves in the summer, it may be…

Read More
blog1
Jan 25,2026
How Tree Companies Balance Safety and Environmental Responsibility

How Tree Companies Balance Safety and Environmental Responsibility When people hear the words “tree service,” they often think it’s all about cutting branches or whole trees down. On the flip side, some folks imagine environmental responsibility to be leaving trees…

Read More
blog1
Jan 03,2024
Ideal Evergreen Trees to Plant in Your Landscape

Ideal Evergreen Trees to Plant in Your Landscape Evergreen trees are a cherished addition to any landscape, providing year-round beauty and many practical benefits. While deciduous trees may shed their leaves in the fall, evergreens maintain their lush foliage throughout…

Read More
blog1
May 31,2024
Should You Worry About Lichen on Trees?

Should You Worry About Lichen on Trees? Lichens are fascinating and often misunderstood. When homeowners notice these growths on the bark of trees, it raises concerns about the health of their yard. If you notice lichens on your trees, consult…

Read More
blog1
Apr 19,2023
Why My Trees Look Bad

Why My Trees Look Bad Trees are alive and need regular care. Like most living things, they can get injuries or diseases. While it is not always easy to identify signs of infection or infestation in trees, you may have…

Read More
blog1
Jun 19,2022
2022 Annual Tree Inspection Tips

2022 Annual Tree Inspection Tips Most people don't think about trees until there's a problem. But just like your car or your roof, trees need regular maintenance to stay healthy and function properly. That's why an annual tree inspection service…

Read More