TILLAMOOK TREE SERVICE
TREE TOPPING
& HEADING CUTS
Fast results today. Bigger problems tomorrow.
WHY WE DON'T DO THEM - AND WHEN IT MAKES SENSE
❌ What Is Tree Topping / Heading?
Tree topping removes large portions of a tree’s canopy without regard to natural structure, proper branch unions, or long-term stability.
It’s commonly requested to:
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Reduce height quickly
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Control size
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Let in light
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Avoid future maintenance
It accomplishes none of these goals safely.
🚫 Why Topping Creates Bigger Problems
Topping triggers stress responses that lead to:
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Weak, fast regrowth with poor attachment
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Increased failure risk in wind and storms
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Large wounds that accelerate decay
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Higher long-term maintenance costs
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Increased liability for property owners
A topped tree isn’t smaller — it’s compromised.
🌱 Our Pruning Policy
We do not perform tree topping or indiscriminate heading cuts.
Acceptable exceptions include:
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Fruit trees under proper training systems
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Established pollarded trees
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Post-storm remediation where structure is already lost
Outside of these cases, we recommend:
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Structural pruning, proper reduction cuts, phased management..
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Or removal when appropriate
Tree health, safety, and long-term outcomes come first.