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Forums > Default Group > Tree Care

Tree canopy reduction or topping??

Last Post 29 Nov 2011 01:03 PM by . 1 Replies.

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sams

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Posts:18

28 Nov 2011 12:17 PM	Quote Reply
Hello, I live in Washington State and have several 50-60 ft douglas fir trees on my property. I love the trees but there are 4 or 5 that are close enough to contact my house if we got enough wind. To date, i have done some removal of lower branches about 20 ft up from the ground to create usable canopy space (lawn) under the trees. I had an arborist come out to take a look and he sad that the trees looked good, they were nice and mounded around the the ground at the base and not to be concerned. Regardless, when the wind blows, i get concerned. I am wondering if there is something that i can do to reduce the wind resistance/weight, and height. Maybe a combination of taking a little off the top, as well as thinning out branches or just the new growth ends?? Looking for advice on best options to reduce wind resistance, and let in more light. Thanks, Sam

Gary Ickes User is Offline

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Posts:18

29 Nov 2011 01:03 PM	Quote Reply
I am based on the Gulf Coast. I can talk about the general principle. I would start with a canopy cleaning. This targets deadwood, nubs, limbs rubbing against each other, and other minor defects. Once the canopy cleaning is finished, look at the canopy for denser areas of growth for thinning. No more than 20% of the foliage should be removed in a season, if not two. No climbs gaffs are to be used. No wound paint or coatings should be used either. You did not say if the arborist was an ISA Certified Arborist. If they were not, I would contact one. Canopy reduction is a viable pruning technique if performed properly but a disaster if not. You can find certified arborists at http://www.isa-arbor.com/certification/verifyCredential/index.aspx. I hope that you find this useful. Feel free to post any additional questions you may have. Thank you, Gary Ickes

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