Tree Pruning Vs Tree Lopping

Trees are an important part of our landscape and play a vital role in the ecosystem. They help with air circulation, provide shade, and they even produce fresh flowers. However, they can also become a nuisance when they grow too tall and interfere with other structures such as houses, roads, or power lines. As such, it is important to take care of your trees and ensure that they are healthy and not causing any inconvenience. Tree pruning and lopping are two common maintenance techniques that can be used for a number of purposes, from removing large limbs to enhancing the appearance of your yard. However, it is important to understand the difference between the two so that you can make the best choice for your trees and property.

Tree lopping is the drastic and harmful practice of cutting off large sections of a tree’s upper branches and foliage. This is often done to reduce a tree’s height or address safety concerns, but it can actually cause serious damage and long-term problems. It is considered an outdated and harmful technique and many professional arborists recommend that you avoid it at all costs.

The main problem with tree lopping is that it removes too much of a tree’s nutrients and can leave it vulnerable to diseases and parasites. This is because a tree’s leaves are responsible for absorbing sunlight and delivering essential nutrients to the rest of the plant. Removing these leaves can trigger a starvation response from the tree and cause it to weaken, rot, or die. In addition, the open wounds created by pruning cuts allow bacteria and insects to invade a tree and predispose it to disease and decay.

As a result, a tree that has been lopped is more likely to fall and can damage or injure people or property. This is especially dangerous in our region, where strong winds and heavy rain are common. Additionally, lopped trees tend to sprout new growth in the form of epicormic branches that attach poorly and are prone to breaking.

While it may be tempting to cut your own trees with a ladder and a pair of tree loppers, this is a dangerous and often complicated task that requires the help of an experienced professional. It is best to look for a reputable arboriculture company that has been in business for a while, has a history of satisfied customers, and a good reputation for quality work. By hiring a professional, you can save time and money while ensuring that your trees are healthy and well-maintained.

source https://realtreesolutions.wordpress.com/2024/07/26/tree-pruning-vs-tree-lopping/