Do's and Don'ts: A Guide for Topping Pine Trees

Tree topping disrupts a tree's natural shape but may be necessary for the wellbeing of the tree or its surroundings

Care should be taken when considering topping a pine tree.

Topping can be a controversial topic with some arborists, given how it can cause damage to the entire tree and can potentially turn healthy trees into weaker ones. However in some cases it may be required to support the tree or prevent damage to nearby infrastructure. 

Do most pine trees need topping? Can you just trim pine trees instead? What happens if your topped tree dies? Let's get into these questions and more as we discuss the topic of tree topping.

What is tree topping?

Tree topping is the process of removing the top part of the tree's trunk. This is often done if the tree is getting too tall and could potentially interfere with utility lines, if the tree is interfering with the property owners' sightlines or if the tree could potentially cause damage in the event of a storm or strong winds. It could also be unsafe if there are neighboring trees close by, because if the tree falls down it could potentially cause a larger blowdown.

The process of topping pine trees dates back centuries though it's also not good for the health of the tree. It causes new branches to become brittle and opens it up to potential disease.

Why shouldn't I top a pine tree?

Topping a pine tree is often considered as a last resort. Because it can greatly affect the health of the tree, alternatives are often considered first. Proper pruning may help to reduce the tree's volume if sightlines are a problem. Trimming dead branches will also support new growth which is healthier.

However if a tree could potentially fall and cause property damage or would interfere with nearby utility lines it's safer to top the tree and prepare to maintain its recovery. While you may stress the tree it could potentially be unavoidable.

Can I prune a pine tree instead of topping it?

Severe pruning can be an alternative to topping. Pruning dead, dying or damaged branches will support new growth at the top and support the tree's health.

If a tree is wildly overgrown arborists may recommend topping and pruning a few branches but listen to their advice because they'll have a better perspective on the whole tree's health.

How much of the tree should be topped?

That will depend on the height of the tree and how much of it is causing problems. Ideally you should cut down as little as possible. The large tree that could potentially fall and cause severe damage may need to have more removed.

A young tree's trunk will regrow but it won't be as straight as it was before and could potentially branch out.

What happens if my topped pine tree dies?

That's unfortunate but a realistic possibility. Because pine trees are sensitive to wounds and disease it may not be possible for a topped pine tree to recover.

All you can do now is cut it down, use a stump grinder like the Woodland Mills WG28 PRO to remove the stump and roots and attempt to plant a new one. Thankfully though if you own a portable sawmill like the HM130MAX you may be able to make use of the lumber.