Knowledgebase
Tree management #167452
Asked February 19, 2014, 6:45 PM EST
I have a very large sweet gum tree in my front yard, approximately 40 feet tall, with an extensive surface root system. I would like to keep the tree for shade purposes, but I'm afraid it will fall over one of these days. Can it be topped, or cut in half and survive, or will that kill the tree?
Linn County Oregon
Expert Response
Hello:
Topping trees is very bad arboricultural practice. I would strongly recommend calling a certified arborist to schedule an appointment to have them look over the tree and discuss your options. You can find a list of local certified arborists at the PNW International Society of Arboriculturists website. http://pnwisa.org/.
Topping trees is very bad arboricultural practice. I would strongly recommend calling a certified arborist to schedule an appointment to have them look over the tree and discuss your options. You can find a list of local certified arborists at the PNW International Society of Arboriculturists website. http://pnwisa.org/.
