Tree Management Practices To Be Avoided

Lopping and topping

Lopping and topping are unacceptable practices for the following reasons:

• They increase the rate of shoot production and elongation.
• The resulting regrowth is weakly attached and becomes prone to failure or collapse.
• The stubs may decay.
• The natural habit of the tree is destroyed.
• They may reduce the lifespan of the tree.
• They predispose trees to fungal infections and insect attack.

Wound painting

In theory, wound dressings or paints are meant to prevent decay, stimulate wound closure and improve the appearance of a wound. Extensive research has shown that there are no wound dressings that prevent decay. Most dressings have no effect on wound closure and some damage tree tissues and may improve conditions for wood decay fungi. The colour and texture of most paints is far from natural. The best practice is to prune to the appropriate positions outlined in this Standard and do not use wound paints. If natural target pruning is followed, the tree’s own protective mechanisms will normally provide adequate defence.

Flush cutting

This is a method of pruning that was quite common for many years, however it is now considered to be unacceptable and detrimental to tree health and structure. This practice that damages or removes the branch collar is unacceptable for the following reasons:

• It removes or damages the branch collar and stem tissue. These features define and enclose a range of chemical defences that the tree has in place for the eventual and natural decline of the branch.
• A larger wound is created.
• The tree uses more energy and relies on stored starch reserves to deal with the wound; this energy is then unavailable for other essential processes.
• The exposed wood is prone to decay.
• Long term defects such as cavities may eventuate.

Root Pruning

Roots are responsible for the uptake of nutrients and water and for anchoring and supporting the tree in the ground. The pruning of roots may place the tree under stress, allow entry of pathogens, including root-rotting fungi and may destabilise the tree.

• Specialist advice from a person in arboriculture should be advised before any root pruning occurs. Where possible, the root to be pruned should be located and exposed using minimally destructive techniques such as hand-digging, compressed air or water-jetting, or non-destructive techniques such as ground penetrating radar.
• All cuts shall be clean cuts made with sharp tools such as secateurs, pruners, handsaws, chainsaws or specialised root pruning equipment.
• The effects of root pruning are not always predictable.

Caring for Country is part of our vision at Muru Mittigar. Our stewardship of open spaces allows us to provide positive and long lasting environmental outcomes. We are passionate about getting the greatest amenity from our natural environment. For all Landscape Maintenance enquiries, please contact: Operations Manager – Steve Brown Jr. (02) 4730 0400 e: steve.brown.jnr@murumittigar.com.au.