Tree lopping refers to the removal of big side branches from a tree. Anything that damages a tree creates wounds that may take very long to heal, leaving an entry point for disease-causing organisms to enter the tree. This article discusses how you can limit the demand for you to lop the trees on your property.

Have a Detailed Landscaping Plan

One of the reasons why some homeowners lop trees is to remove branches that are growing very close to a feature (such as a detached garage) that they added to their home or landscape. You can avoid such mistakes by making a comprehensive plan for your yard or landscape before you plant any trees. This plan will guide you on the best location for the trees. Thus, you will not be under any pressure to lop a tree in order to accommodate a new addition to your landscape.

Choose the Right Tree Species

Another reason why people lop trees is to tame their excessive growth so that they do not interfere with overhead utility lines or nearby plants. This mistake can occur even if you had a detailed plan for your landscape. For instance, you may plant a tree species that develops an extensive branch network to the extent that it extends to other trees in your yard. Research the growth patterns of the different trees you wish to plant. This knowledge will save you from planting trees that will outgrow the space that you had allocated to them.

Hire a Certified Arborist

Sometimes, it may be inevitable for you to lop the trees on your property. When that need arises, avoid taking on that task yourself. This is because you may do it poorly, thereby compelling the tree to go into "survival mode". A tree in that state will aggressively sprout new branches to compensate for the food-manufacturing branches that it has lost. The new growths will be so vigorous that you may be compelled to lop the trees more frequently than would have been necessary. An arborist can determine the best way to lop the tree so that its well-being is not threatened. That expert's involvement will save you from having to deal with the consequences of poor lopping (such as the risk of tertiary branches breaking off during a storm and damaging your house).

As you can see, planning in advance can go a long way in saving you from having to lop your trees. It is very important for you to seek for professional advice from arborists before you do anything that may affect the health of your trees. Contact an arborist near you if you have been considering lopping your trees.