Will cutting the top off oak trees kill them?

Cutting the top off oak trees, a practice known as "topping," can severely harm them. While it may not immediately kill the tree, it can lead to significant stress, encourage unhealthy growth, and increase vulnerability to pests and diseases. Additionally, topped trees often develop weak branches that may break off easily. It's generally advisable to use proper pruning techniques instead of topping to maintain the health and structure of the tree.