05/06/2026
The Hidden Damage of “Lion Tailing” Your Trees
This tree on the left is a perfect example of what happens when improper pruning practices remove too much interior growth and foliage, a technique commonly called lion tailing. While it may look “clean” at first, this type of pruning actually weakens the tree over time.
Why is lion tailing harmful?
• Excess weight is pushed to the ends of branches
• Limbs become more vulnerable to storm failure and breakage
• Interior canopy protection is lost, increasing sunscald stress
• Trees respond with weak, rapid regrowth
• Overall structure, health, and lifespan decline
Proper pruning is about improving structure, balance, and long term health, not stripping a tree bare.
At Tree MD's, we follow industry standard pruning practices that prioritize tree health, safety, and structural integrity for years to come.
If your trees have been heavily over pruned in the past, corrective pruning plans can often help restore healthier growth over time.