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Restoring tipped trees
Tipping (right photo) creates a unique structure in trees that is challenging to correct because many branches end up the same diameter. In some ways, restoration is similar to the procedure for topped trees.
Treatment: Allow the recently tipped tree to grow for a couple years to regain energy and strength. Then procede with the following. Your goal is to 1) remove all but one sprout from the tipping cuts and 2) space scaffold branches far enough apart so they can develop lateral branches. Attempt to restore or develop structure by removing some tipped branches back to the trunk behind the original tipping cut and shortening other branches (see illustration below). When shortening, remove sprouts back to the tipping cuts, similar to removing branches back to a topping cut. Several prunings over ten years may be required to put good structure into a tipped tree.
