Glossary term
What is Crown reduction?
Short answer
Crown reduction is a pruning method that makes a tree's top smaller by cutting branches back to side branches, instead of topping.
Crown reduction, explained for tree service owners
Crown reduction lowers the height or width of a tree by cutting branches back to a strong side branch, called a lateral. Done correctly, it keeps the tree's natural shape and lets it heal. It is used when a tree is too close to a house or wires, or when it is overweight on one side. It is different from topping, which cuts big limbs in the middle and leaves ugly stubs that can rot. Crown reduction is usually done in small amounts, and some species respond poorly to heavy cuts. Homeowners can ask a crew which method they will use. A tree service owner can explain it in a short page on the website to attract careful customers.
Related terms
- Crown
Crown is the upper part of a tree made of branches, twigs and leaves, growing from the trunk.
- Compartmentalization
Compartmentalization is a tree's way of walling off a wound so decay stays in one area and does not spread.
- Epicormic sprouts
Epicormic sprouts are thin shoots that grow from buds on the trunk or old branches, often after stress or heavy pruning.
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