Topping vs. Pruning

When a decision is made to reduce the size of an older tree, it can be topped, or it can be pruned properly. Although the speed and nature of regrowth will depend on species and local factors, any comparison of irresponsible topping vs. competent pruning will be dramatic.

Common topping terms:

Stubbing

Heading

Heading-back

Stubbing-off

Tipping

Lopping

Click here for an illustration of this comparison

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