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Topping a 90-Foot Fir: Why It's a Bad Idea

Suburban backyard has 90-ft fir with 15-ft forked top and lean. Owner asked if topping 20 ft is feasible and safe.

The expert strongly advised against topping. Growth comes from the top (meristem); cutting causes structural problems, decay entry, and poor aesthetics. Linked ISA article against topping.

Why Not Top

Removes apical meristem → chaotic regrowth.
Large wound invites decay fungi.
Destroys natural form.
Consult arborist for reduction pruning instead.

Conifers: Pruning a Giant Indoor Yucca: Cut Back and Propagate the Top; Small Weeping Trees for a 5×5 Foundation Spot in Partial Shade; Reviving a Money Tree with Fungus; Root Depth and Spread of Swamp and Emerald Cedars; Hemlock Woolly Adelgid on Fir: Systemic Treatment; Fir Tree Infestation: Aphids/Scale, Sooty Mold, and Systemic Treatment; Saving a Fir with a Dead Top; Topping a Sycamore: Don't Do It—Remove and Replace; Magnolia Tree Yellowing After Yard Renovation: Root Damage Suspected; The Case Against Topping Hemlocks in Upstate New York

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