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Related: Culture Forums, Support ForumsOur neighbor is having their trees "topped"
This after I explained the damage and increase maintenance that happens with topping as opposed to "lacing" (thinning) the trees.
What's crazy is the tree trimming estimates she got. Every single contractor said to top them.
Mind boggling.
flying_wahini
(6,752 posts)Is the neighbor just taking their word for it?
SHRED
(28,136 posts)I don't know why they took their word.
I told my neighbor to research lacing as opposed to topping.
onethatcares
(16,232 posts)the ficus and brazilian pepper are invasive. I'd burn em down.
patricia92243
(12,607 posts)Not in this case however.
Wellstone ruled
(34,661 posts)the proliferation of Suckers. Once the Center Spike is removed,the natural growth and shape of the tree changes as well as the health of the tree. in process of trying to save two Japanese Privets(Texas Privet)trees . Wind storm ripped the Center spikes out of both and yes the trees bushed out,but,both are now Sucker bound which does not promote good tree health as well as a real ugly job of sucker removal. This particular species are known for being attacked by a Griddle Fungus when it's health is threatened.
If it is a power-line issue,yes trim it,but if not just brush the tree out(lacing).
Major Nikon
(36,828 posts)A mature tree should have no more than 20% of its growth pruned. The problem is people will let trees go for years or decades and expect a quick fix to a problem that took a very long time to develop. Over pruning results in weakening of the tree followed by irregular growth spurts which inevitably require even more problems and maintenance in the future.
Im not surprised so many tree services recommend topping. Most do not have a certified arborist on staff, and they really dont make the best recommendations.
SHRED
(28,136 posts)Major Nikon
(36,828 posts)Most often Ive seen it used to describe radical pruning which significantly thins out the interior of the tree.
I have a certified arborist that Ive been using to maintain my trees for many years. His advice is to remove nothing unless you have a good reason to do so. Otherwise you are inviting more problems than youll ever hope to solve.
I have several live oaks that will undoubtedly outlive me that he has developed into great trees which look fantastic.
SHRED
(28,136 posts)When they are thinned the tree is so much safer.
Eucalyptus have a nasty habit of breaking.
Wounded Bear
(58,828 posts)My brother's neighbor had several trees taken down. Spent the late morning hauling wood from one yard to the other.
They were mature trees, too. 18" long rounds at about 14-18" diameter.
Oh well, I needed the excercise.
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