Here are 6 most common misconceptions about tree care that you should be aware of, along with insights into the right ways to keep your trees healthy
When it comes to caring for trees, many people rely on conventional wisdom or advice passed down through generations. Unfortunately, not all of this advice is accurate — and some can actually harm your trees rather than help them. Proper tree care is about understanding how trees grow, respond to stress, and interact with their environment. Misguided practices can weaken their structure, make them more vulnerable to diseases, or even lead to premature death.
Here are some of the most common misconceptions about tree care that you should be aware of, along with insights into the right ways to keep your trees healthy and thriving.
1. “Topping a Tree Is Good for It”
One of the most damaging misconceptions in tree care is the belief that topping — cutting off the top portion of a tree — helps control its size or improves its shape. In reality, topping is one of the worst things you can do to a tree.
When a tree is topped, large branches or the upper trunk are cut off, leaving behind stubs that cannot properly heal. The tree responds by rapidly producing multiple weak shoots around the cuts. These shoots grow quickly but are poorly attached, making them prone to breaking in wind or storms. As a result, a topped tree becomes structurally unstable and far more likely to drop branches in the future.
Additionally, topping removes much of the tree’s leaf canopy, which reduces its ability to produce food through photosynthesis. This stresses the tree, weakens its immune system, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases. The exposed bark and branches are also at risk of sunscald, which occurs when intense sunlight damages the inner tissues of the tree.
Instead of topping, consider crown reduction pruning — a controlled trimming method that selectively shortens branches while maintaining the tree’s natural form. This should always be done by a certified arborist, who can assess the structure and determine the safest way to reduce height or spread without compromising health.
2. “Trees Should Be Pruned Frequently to Stay Healthy”
While pruning is indeed essential to tree health, over-pruning can be just as harmful as neglect. Trees need their leaves to generate energy through photosynthesis. When too many branches are removed, the tree loses a significant portion of its food-producing capacity, leading to stress and stunted growth.
Many homeowners believe that frequent or heavy pruning keeps trees “tidy” and “healthy,” but in truth, excessive pruning can cause long-term damage. It opens multiple wounds on the tree’s surface, allowing pests and diseases to enter. Moreover, over-pruned trees may produce a flush of weak new growth in an attempt to recover, which often results in an unbalanced canopy and poor structural integrity.
A good rule of thumb is to remove no more than 25% of a tree’s canopy in a single year. Regular light pruning to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches is beneficial, but major structural pruning should be done strategically and only when necessary.
To ensure your tree receives the right level of care, consult a qualified arborist. They can determine when and how to prune to maintain both aesthetic appeal and biological health. Proper pruning encourages airflow, allows more sunlight to reach lower branches, and reduces the risk of falling limbs — all without stressing the tree.
3. “You Need Chemicals to Keep Trees Healthy”
It’s a common assumption that chemicals — such as pesticides, fungicides, and fertilisers — are essential for maintaining healthy trees. While they can sometimes be helpful, indiscriminate use of chemicals often causes more harm than good.
Overreliance on chemical treatments can lead to soil degradation, water contamination, and harm to beneficial insects and animals. Some pesticides can also disrupt the natural ecosystem around your trees, reducing biodiversity and resilience.
In most cases, trees can thrive with natural care practices such as:
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Proper watering: Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root growth and reduces drought stress.
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Mulching: Applying organic mulch around the base of the tree helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds.
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Balanced fertilisation: Instead of synthetic fertilisers, consider using compost or slow-release organic options that nourish the soil gradually.
If a chemical treatment is necessary — for example, to control a specific pest infestation — it should only be applied after expert diagnosis and recommendation. A tree care professional can identify the cause of the issue and advise on the safest and most effective treatment plan.
4. “Plant Trees Deeply to Make Them Stronger”
Many people believe that planting a tree deeper in the ground will make it more stable. However, planting too deep is one of the most common causes of tree failure.
When a tree is planted too deeply, the root flare — the point where the trunk begins to widen at the base — is buried underground. This prevents proper oxygen exchange and causes water to accumulate around the trunk, leading to rot, root suffocation, and ultimately tree death.
The correct way to plant a tree is to ensure that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the soil surface. This allows air and moisture to circulate properly, helping roots establish themselves efficiently. Always remove any burlap or wire from the root ball before planting, as these materials can restrict root growth.
After planting, add a layer of mulch around the base, but keep it a few centimetres away from the trunk to prevent rot. Water regularly during the first few months to help the roots settle, but avoid overwatering — soggy soil can be just as harmful as drought.
5. “Trees Don’t Need Professional Care”
It’s easy to assume that trees can take care of themselves — after all, they grow naturally in forests without human help. However, the conditions in an urban or suburban environment are very different. Trees planted near homes, driveways, or power lines face unique stressors such as compacted soil, limited root space, and pollution.
That’s why professional tree care is so important. Certified arborists are trained to diagnose tree diseases, identify structural weaknesses, and recommend preventive measures to ensure long-term health. They can also assess potential risks, such as overhanging branches or hidden decay, and carry out necessary pruning or cabling to prevent accidents.
Regular inspections not only protect your property but also extend the life of your trees. Investing in proper care can prevent costly problems in the future — such as removing a dead or hazardous tree that could have been saved with early intervention.
6. “All Tree Species Require the Same Care”
Another common misconception is that all trees have similar care needs. In reality, different species require different levels of sunlight, water, and pruning. For example, native Australian species such as eucalyptus or bottlebrush have adapted to dry conditions and poor soils, whereas imported ornamental trees may need more water and nutrient-rich soil.
Before planting or pruning, it’s important to research the specific needs of your tree species. A one-size-fits-all approach can lead to improper watering, over-fertilisation, or stress from unsuitable growing conditions.
By understanding your tree’s natural growth habits and environmental preferences, you can create an ideal environment that supports strong, healthy development.
The Importance of Informed Tree Care
Trees are living organisms that contribute immensely to our environment — providing shade, reducing carbon dioxide, and improving air quality. However, keeping them healthy requires knowledge, patience, and proper techniques. Misguided practices such as topping, over-pruning, or overusing chemicals can shorten a tree’s lifespan and harm the surrounding ecosystem.
If you’re ever uncertain about how to care for a tree on your property, it’s best to consult professionals who specialise in arboriculture. Expert advice ensures that your trees are treated with methods that enhance both their beauty and strength over time.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the truth behind common tree care myths can make a huge difference in the health and longevity of your trees. By learning proper planting, pruning, and maintenance practices — and by seeking expert help when needed — you can protect your trees from unnecessary stress and ensure they thrive for generations.
Whether you’re caring for a single backyard tree or managing an entire property, remember: tree care isn’t just about looks. It’s about preserving life, promoting balance, and protecting the natural beauty that surrounds us.
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