Increasing Strength, Vitality and Health in Trees

Tree lopping is the practice of cutting off the top of a tree. You might need to do this for any number of reasons, such as controlling its height. A competent person, such as an arborist, should ideally carry out this activity. This is because tree lopping can have adverse effects such as exposing tree branches to too much sunshine. However, many homeowners choose to lop their own trees. This article discusses some precautions that a homeowner should bear in mind as he or she lops a tree.

Avoid Climbing Trees Using Spiked Shoes

Spiked shoes should be avoided as you climb your tree to lop it. This is because the spikes will create wounds on the surface of the trees. Those wounds will take very long to heal and they can provide an entry point for fungus and rot to afflict your tree, killing it in the end.

Ensure Tree Integrity Before You Climb

It is very important to note that tree lopping be carried out only after inspecting the tree and confirming that it is safe to climb that tree. For instance, there may be weak branches that can collapse under your weight. Such weak branches can be identified by observing if there rotten segments of the branch or if that branch is leaning heavily to one side. Do not climb a tree if you have doubts about its ability to take your weight.

Test Branches Before Transferring Your Weight Onto Them

As you climb up the tree, first test each branch before you put all your weight onto it. You can test the branch by placing one leg on it and then shaking it with that foot to find out how strong it is. If the branch hardly moves when you test it, shift your weight onto it. This is because that branch is strong enough to take your weight.

Remove Items That Increase Entanglement Risks

Remove items like jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, etc.) that may be entangled on a tree branch when you have climbed the tree you are going to lop. If you have long hair, tie it up so that it is close to your head. This will safeguard you from being entangled by your hair.

It is always advisable to hire a specialist like Treesafe Environmental Services to carry out any tree lopping you would like to be done on your property. This is because the arborist has ample training and the necessary tools to perform the task. If you cannot hire one, keep the precautions above in mind as you lop your tree.