Arborists, master gardeners, landscapers and nursery operators and your local tree board urge tree owners not to top – cut back branches to reduce height – trees because of the damage such actions cause to the tree.

Topping removes 50-100 percent of the food-making leaves; a tree then tries to get back its food-making source with excessive re-growth. These new branches are prone to wind damage and will require re-pruning in the next few years.

Damaged trees reduce property values. Bark wounds recover slowly; large open cuts expose sapwood and heartwood.

Evergreens need little pruning. Prune only to remove dead, damaged or diseased wood in late summer. Trees that have overgrown their spaces should be removed and replaced, or renovated by an arborist or certified landscaper. Correct pruning helps maintain a tree’s value, health and vigor; it rejuvenates its shape and size and can improve ornamental and fruiting qualities.

About the Auburn Urban Tree Board

One of the missions of the Auburn Urban Tree Board is to encourage citizens to put the “right tree in the right place” – and then to take proper care of the tree.

For more information on tree selection and care, go to www.isa-arbor.com or www.arborday.org.

For questions on tree care and to learn more about the Urban Tree Board (including how you can serve on the Board), call the Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation Department at 253-931-3043.