In this episode of the Good Growing podcast, horticulture educator Chris Enroth with University of Illinois Extension takes us on a deep dive into the controversial practice of tree topping. Often referred to as stubbing or hat-racking, tree topping involves cutting the canopy of a tree back to a uniform height, which can have disastrous consequences for the tree's health and safety. Chris rants, er...explains why this outdated method is harmful, detailing the science behind tree growth and the negative impacts of removing significant leaf cover. He also discusses the legal liabilities homeowners face with poorly managed trees and who to turn to when you need a tree care professional. Tune in to learn why tree topping is like giving your tree a bad haircut and discover better ways to care for your landscape investments.

Watch us on YouTube https://youtu.be/5YHneEN0zyA 

Skip to what you want to know:
01:58 Tree topping has been done for generations. Are you saying Grandma was wrong?
02:27 What happens when you top a tree?
02:59 The rise of epicormic shoots!
03:58 Epicormic shoots are WEAK!
04:20 Watch out for widowmakers!
04:54 Will I get in trouble for having widowmakers in my trees?
05:29 What can I do to avoid tree care people that top trees?
05:53 How do we prune shade trees without tree topping?
06:22 Topped trees are ugly!
07:28 What about this thing called pollarding? Is that the same as tree topping?

Contact us! 
Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu
Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu 

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Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.

Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk 
Chainsaw footage provided by Storyblocks

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