Depending on the angle at which the tree is growing into the lines, there will be a “V” shape to the tree if trimmed from the top, or an “L” shape if trimmed from the side. Directional pruning is less traumatic than “topping” for the tree, as it will be nearly as healthy as it was before the pruning. The sprouts after directional pruning will grow slower and continue to grow away from the wires. With topping, regrowth is directed back into electric lines and it occurs more quickly than with directional pruning.
