What is a significant drawback of topping trees?

Topping trees significantly leaves large wounds on the tree’s trunk and branches, which is the primary reason why it is considered an inappropriate pruning practice. When large branches are removed, the cuts are often too large for the tree to compartmentalize effectively. This lack of ability to heal can lead to increased vulnerability to diseases and pests, which may penetrate through the exposed wood. Additionally, these large wounds can take a long time to heal, if they heal at all, leading to potential structural issues and decay over time.

Furthermore, topping alters the tree's natural growth structure and can result in weak regrowth. The new branches that develop from these wounds are often more brittle and prone to breaking than they would be if the tree was pruned properly. Proper tree care and maintenance practices prioritize tree health and aesthetics, and topping directly contradicts those principles by causing harm rather than promoting healthy growth.