 Re: Why Topping?
The amount of pruning (removal of canopy) the tree can sustain without negative impact.
Depends on species, age, vigour, location etc.
On very old trees often 5% per annum is suggested as maximum dose ... in an orchard it could be 50% etc.
The tree is a balanced unit, balanced between roots and canopy. Excessive canopy removal creates an imbalance which negatively affects the tree. New shoots (epicormics) are one reaction as the tree tries to replace foliage, you also have root problems plus pest/insect/disease problems that can arise.
Hope that helps. |