The City of White Rock is reminding residents of healthy ways to properly maintain trees ahead of gardening season and advising against tree topping.
Tree topping is when tree branches are cut to stubs and leads to a negative impact to the tree, not just altering the appearance of a tree. Tree topping is the most harmful way of cutting a tree.
Negative effects of tree topping include:
- Stress and shock to trees.
- Branches are exposed to sunburn.
- Destroys the natural form of a tree.
- Leads to decay and issues with pests.
The topping of trees is prohibited under the City of White Rock’s Tree Protection Bylaw, Bylaw No. 2407 (PDF) and can result in fines up to $10,000 per tree.
The City of White Rock recommends hiring a Certified Arborist for pruning all trees. Find a Certified Arborist at www.treesaregood.org, a site created by the International Society of Arboriculture for quality tree care.
Examples of tree topping:
Pruning cut location is critical to a tree’s growth and wound closure response. Make pruning cuts just outside the branch collar to avoid damaging the trunk and compromising wound responses. Improper pruning cuts may lead to permanent internal decay.
Correct tree pruning:
Learn more about Pruning Trees and the harmful effects of tree topping at “Why Topping Hurts Trees”.
For more information on tree management in the City of White Rock, visit whiterockcity.ca/trees or contact the Arboricultural Technician at 604-541-2143 or treebylaw@whiterockcity.ca