Tree Lopping - What You Need to Know

This Eucalyptus tereticornis is showing signs of stress due to previous poor pruning techniques or “lopping”. There is major dieback throughout the crown and the majority of growth is epicormic. Remedial pruning would be the recommended work specification here.

The practice of tree lopping (or topping as it is sometimes called) is still unfortunately prevalent among so called arborists throughout Australia. Tree Lopping involves the cutting back of all branches of the tree without any regard for the trees health, or for the future safety of the tree or its owner (or their property). After lopping, the tree adds new growth quickly in an attempt to recover from the shock of losing its entire photosynthetic area. These new branches are very poorly attached to the tree, and highly likely to snap as soon as they achieve any substantial size. This hazardous situation is further compounded by the potential for decay to enter the tree via the large wounds left by the lopping, this further weakens branches and increases the potential for failure.

If a tradesperson offers to ‘lop’ your trees for you, or if you see an ‘arborist’ offering ‘tree-lopping’ services, they are NOT arborists, and if you value your trees, you should not employ their services.
If you are unsure of an arborists credentials, ask to see some evidence of training in Arboriculture, at least to TAFE level. A certificate of competency in chainsaw use is NOT proof of arboricultural expertise!