Benefits of Tree Lopping

Numerous Benefits Of Lopping Trees

Benefits of Tree Lopping

Tree lopping means cutting off large branches and limbs back to stubs or smaller lateral branches. Usually, tree care experts may recommend it for good reasons, as it is an essential part of garden maintenance.

Tree pruning helps keep them healthy when growing in tight spaces. It improves overall health by removing sick or dying branches before infection spreads.

Strategic tree trimming in winter protects bare branches from drying out while also preventing disease transmission through open wounds on the tree. Proper lopping technique strengthens trees by directing growth to vigorous parts that thrive, enhancing their stability.

Here is a breakdown of the 5 main benefits tree lopping can provide:

1. Keeps Trees Healthy

Tree lopping removes unhealthy branches that have issues like:

  • Cracks, decay, holes from pests
  • Damage from weather like wind and ice
  • Infestations of insects like borers, aphids, scale
  • Diseases such as fungal infections, mistletoe

Cutting these limbs off prevents rot and pests from spreading into healthy wood. It stops more decay in the tree.

Proper pruning also opens up dense canopies. More air circulation means tree crowns stay drier. Less fungus can grow. More sunlight penetration keeps branches thicker and vigorous.

Good nutrients and water access also keep landscape trees strong. Tree lopping reduces competition between branches fighting over the tree’s resources. Remaining limbs then get more nutrients and moisture to thrive.

2. Makes Trees Safer

Storms put stress on trees. Branches that have defects often break off first. Lopping removes these weak attachments preemptively before they become dangerous.

Tree Lopping also decreases:

  • Wind resistance making trees less likely to topple
  • Weight loading reducing chance of dead branch drop
  • Thick shade creating slick spots from moisture on paths
  • Overhanging branches intruding building space or power lines

Thinning and removing hazardous branches reduces the risk to homeowners and their property, making the environment around trees safer by providing necessary clearance from structures and power lines. Trees also become healthier to stand up better to storm damage and other safety hazards.

Sometimes, however, property damage from a storm might be so severe that complete tree removal becomes the only choice.

3. Better Appearance

Neglected trees tend to look messy and overgrown. Tree lopping fixes appearances by:

  • Removing crowded interior branches
  • Shaping density for visual balance
  • Showcasing tree form and structure
  • Controlling upright waterspout growth

Tree lopping promotes the development of a tree’s natural shape and beauty. Multi-trunk trees like crepe myrtle especially benefit to enhance natural horizontal shapes. Fruit trees lopped while dormant produce better blossom and harvest displays after.

4. Higher Property Value

86% of real estate agents in one survey said a house’s curb appeal is critical for buyers. Manicured landscaping can increase perceived home value by 7-12% and shorten selling time.

Trees properly pruned and cared for:

  • Show pride of ownership
  • Complement architecture
  • Provide privacy screens
  • Add seasonal interest

Trees properly pruned and cared for not only show pride of ownership but also impress potential buyers andothers who visit your property. Tree lopping for health and aesthetics makes trees valuable assets improving a property’s image.

5. More Sun & Air Flow

Dense trees block sunlight from reaching a home. Rooms stay darker and colder in winter. More sun keeps interiors warmer to lower heating bills.

Thick growth also prevents horizontal airflow. Still pockets create higher humidity. This encourages mold, fungi, and decay issues over time. More air circulation across a yard helps moisture evaporate instead of causing problems.

Tree maintenance from an experienced arborist opens up the area along the property line so sunlight and airflow improve. The resulting health, safety, and beauty benefits trees provide then increase home value further.

DIY Lopping Tips

While best performed by professional tree loppers, basic DIY lopping of a small yard tree is possible if you have the right equipment and knowledge:

  • Always use sharp bypass hand pruners and clean tools
  • Cut just outside branch bark collars for quick healing
  • Space out remaining branches for even energy distribution
  • Never remove more than 25% of foliage per season
  • Time cuts based on biology – oak trees when dormant
  • Remove inward-facing branches and vertical waterspouts first
  • Monitor for signs of stress like fewer leaves or dieback

DIY Lopping Tips

Conclusion

Tree lopping, when done properly by qualified arborists, is beneficial. It sustains entire tree health, removes hazards, aids in the prevention of diseases, creates aesthetic appeal, and increases property value. Many people find that professional tree services can provide the best advice and service. Talk to professional tree services to determine if lopping is recommended for your trees.