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I have to top my 8 year old 40 foot tall larch tree as it's leaning towards the town power lines (it grew crooked). I'd rather top it than chop it right down... it doesn't bother me that it Will look different/unsymetrical. It is currently healthy. How To top the main drink though? Straight across? At an angle? Would the type/angle of cut determine how the tree may grow in future?




Answers

 

Well, the first question is what is causing the tree to grow crooked. Is it growing away from taller trees or or a tall building? If so topping is the answer, though I've got to wonder what you are growing it for, if you don't care what it looks like. In any case, it has been growing 5 feet a year, and it will try to grow back even faster. This will probably turn into a yearly ritual.
If it is crooked because it is growing on a slope, You may have to remove it anyway, since sooner or later it is going to fall over.
Both ways, it is better to let a professional take care of it at least the first time, since you will need special equipment and skills to bring down the top of a tree that tall safely. Hopefully, they will have enough knowhow to cut the trunk at a shallow angle, just above a branch pointing away from the lean, and angling down from there.

18 Aug, 2020

 

I have a professionnel booked to top it and he has suggested to cut at angle. Thanks for your input. I wanted to confirm his angle idea.
It is on flat ground, with no other close trees. I obviously care about the tree- as i dont want it gone completely - just safer around the power lines. No offense to what its shape is "supposed" to be. The birds and i aren't picky. I would rather keep this Charlie Brown Tree than remove it completely.
what direction might a new branch grow, cut as you describe?

18 Aug, 2020

 

The hope is that growth from the topmost branch--which is pointing in the opposite direction of the lean, and away from the powerlines--becomes the new leader, standing straighter, and moving the top of the tree farther away from the power lines. Bird shelter is an excellent reason for keeping a tree, and I'd rather cure than kill trees anyway, myself. The only practical concern with the shape is if multiple leaders develop, which will make the tree more subject to splitting in the wind, or heavy snow or ice. Usually, a follow up pruning is recommended the summer or winter after a topping to thin out or shorten the excess leaders.

18 Aug, 2020

 

Thank you VERY MUCH!

18 Aug, 2020

 

You're welcome! :)

19 Aug, 2020

 

If the power company line inspectors think that your tree is of imminent danger to the power lines they will advise or do the job for you. Give them a call.

21 Aug, 2020

How do I say thanks?

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