When a pyramidal arborvitae is topped, it can have detrimental effects on its growth and overall appearance. Topping refers to the practice of cutting off the main leader branch or the top portion of a tree. This is often done to control the height or size of the tree. However, arborvitae trees do not respond well to topping and may suffer from various issues as a result.
Firstly, topping an arborvitae disrupts its natural growth pattern and can lead to an unbalanced and unsightly appearance. These trees have a pyramid-like shape, with the bottom wider than the top. This shape allows sunlight to filter down to the lower foliage, ensuring that all parts of the tree receive adequate light for photosynthesis. Topping the tree removes the main leader branch responsible for its upward growth, resulting in an unnatural and stunted appearance.
Moreover, arborvitae trees do not possess dormant buds along their main trunk or branches, which means they cannot readily produce new growth from old wood. Unlike some other tree species, if the top of an arborvitae is cut off, it will not regrow a new emerging leader branch in the same way. This lack of regrowth can leave the tree permanently disfigured and unable to regain its natural shape.
Additionally, topping can leave the tree vulnerable to diseases, pests, and environmental stress. When a tree is cut or pruned improperly, it creates wounds that may take longer to heal and can serve as entry points for pathogens or insects. Arborvitae trees are susceptible to various diseases, including blights and cankers, which can further weaken the tree’s overall health and vigor.
Furthermore, topping can also result in the development of multiple competing leaders or branches. Instead of a single dominant leader, the tree may produce multiple upright shoots, each vying for dominance. This can lead to a crowded and congested canopy, further compromising the tree’s health and aesthetic appeal. It can also create weak attachment points where branches are more prone to splitting or breaking during storms or high winds.
In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have witnessed the negative consequences of topping arborvitae trees. I have encountered instances where arborvitae trees were topped to control their height, only to see them become disfigured and struggle to recover. Some of these trees developed multiple leaders, resulting in an unattractive and structurally weak canopy. Others suffered from diseases or pests, further compromising their overall health.
To summarize, topping a pyramidal arborvitae can have detrimental effects on its growth, appearance, and overall health. It disrupts the natural growth pattern, prevents regrowth from old wood, and leaves the tree vulnerable to diseases and pests. It is important to avoid topping arborvitae trees and instead opt for proper pruning techniques that promote their natural shape and health.
