Topping a Thuja

[Spinal]

I have a free growing, very large Thuja in my back yard.

It's a full size tree, and as it reaches over the roof of the first floor of the house, I'm guessing has reached about 8m-10m.

I had it topped when it had reached the perfect height of 6m-8m; but now, three years on, it has grown quite a bit more.

So my question, how hard is topping the tree? I can get my hands on a ladder high enough and a chainsaw, machettee, or any other cutting utensil really... I'm just worried I'll kill the tree!

Second question; can I top it alot lower than its current heigh? i.e. can I take off the top 2 meters or so and still not kill the tree?

TIA,
Michele

 

[grober]

I have a free growing, very large Thuja in my back yard.

It's a full size tree, and as it reaches over the roof of the first floor of the house, I'm guessing has reached about 8m-10m.

I had it topped when it had reached the perfect height of 6m-8m; but now, three years on, it has grown quite a bit more.

So my question, how hard is topping the tree? I can get my hands on a ladder high enough and a chainsaw, machettee, or any other cutting utensil really... I'm just worried I'll kill the tree!

Second question; can I top it alot lower than its current heigh? i.e. can I take off the top 2 meters or so and still not kill the tree?

TIA,
Michele

I would be more concerned about killing yourself if you try this. A job best left to the professionals. Get a few quotes from local firms. A little research for a good firm with proper insurance and safety standards will pay dividends. A good tree surgeon will discuss your needs and advise what is possible. When I did this a few years back I contacted the relevant department of the local council since they outsource most of this type of work to specialist firms anyway.

 

[Spinal]

I would be more concerned about killing yourself if you try this. A job best left to the professionals. Get a few quotes from local firms. A little research for a good firm with proper insurance and safety standards will pay dividends. A good tree surgeon will discuss your needs and advise what is possible. When I did this a few years back I contacted the relevant department of the local council since they outsource most of this type of work to specialist firms anyway.

I've fallen out of a tree before - it's not too bad... only a year in hospital and another two of physio

I did think it might be something best left to a professional, but I still am VERY tempted to grab a machettee and climb to the top without a ladder... problem is, it's a bit dense and I'm not sure I would fit!

I guess I'll limit myself to using a hedge trimmer for this weekend and call around next week.

Michele