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| 1. |
Is it really bad to 'top' trees? |
| 2. |
My neighbors topped their Crapemyrtle. Should I top mine? |
| 3. |
I noticed Hoover is a Tree City USA, Tree City. What's the scoop? |
| 4. |
Are we really being 'invaded' by certain species of plants and trees? |
| 5. |
What is Stormwater Runoff |
| 6. |
Where can I find information about Hoover's Stormwater Management Program? |
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| Q. |
Is it really bad to 'top' trees? |
| A. |
There is a common misconception that topping a tree will "revive" it. This is simply not true and no one should be convinced to the contrary by anyone still trying to sell the so called "service" of topping. Without question, topping any species of tree (especially large, mature shade trees) is a harmful practice that almost always leads to structural defects and functional stress. Structural defects can lead to limb and branch failures that, on their own, can damage surrounding property. Severe enough limb and branch failures not properly addressed with pruning can lead to internal decay in trees which only worsens the tree's condition over time, both structurally and functionally. Functional stress can leave trees more susceptible to outside pathogens which can and often does lead to decline and/or mortality. In essence, there are no known benefits to "topping" trees but there are numerous, negative and often dangerous side-effects. Please read what the International Society of Arboriculture has to say about topping trees - CLICK HERE.
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| Q. |
My neighbors topped their Crapemyrtle. Should I top mine? |
| A. |
As mentioned in an earlier FAQ, topping is a harmful and potentially destructive practice with any species of tree. Some smaller ornamental trees like crapemyrtle can tolerate annual topping but the benefits of this practice are questionable at best. A reduction in size or maintenance of a specific size can often be achieved in crapemyrtle but flower production is not enhanced and winter form along with other aesthetic characteristics are completely altered. Crapemyrtle is a diverse tree and one that is produced by growers in every size, shape and color imagineable. If your yard space dictates a small crapemyrtle, you can buy and small crapemyrtle. And if you have a sizeable lawn then there's a large crapemyrtle out there with your name on it! Crapemyrtles that are properly planted in full sun, maintained as they should be and allowed to grow to their natural size tend to be some of the most beautiful, ornamental trees in the landscape. They are a total package tree with aesthetic as well as survivability qualities from top to bottom. It's unfortunate that so many people still miss out on all the wonderful characteristics this species has to offer when it's allowed to just be itself! For an interesting read on topping crapemyrtles, check out what the City of Huntsville has to say about "Crape Murder". Click here.
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| Q. |
I noticed Hoover is a Tree City USA, Tree City. What's the scoop? |
| A. |
Yes, Hoover is in its 11th consecutive years as a Tree City USA and we are extremely proud to have maintained this designation. Complete details regarding the National Arbor Day Foundation's Tree City USA program can be found here.
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| Q. |
Are we really being 'invaded' by certain species of plants and trees? |
| A. |
You bet your Pampass grass we are. Exotic, non-native and even native invasive species of plants are a real and serious threat. CLICK HERE to find out about Alabama's 10 worst invasive weeds. While you're at it, check out these websites to learn more about invasive plants - (1) Invasive Species Info, (2) Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council, (3) Bugwood.
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| Q. |
What is Stormwater Runoff |
| A. |
Stormwater runoff is generated when precipitation from rain and snowmelt events flows over land or impervious surfaces and does not percolate into the ground. As the runoff flows over the land or impervious surfaces (paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops), it accumulates debris, chemicals, sediment or other pollutants that could adversely affect water quality if the runoff is discharged untreated. The primary method to control stormwater discharges is the use of best management practices (BMPs).
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| Q. |
Where can I find information about Hoover's Stormwater Management Program? |
| A. |
Click this link to view Stormwater Information and learn about Hoover's Stormwater Management Program.
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