What effect does severe heading on trees usually have on sprout growth?

Severe heading, which involves cutting back a tree's branches significantly, often leads to the stimulation of vigorous growth in the form of multiple new shoots or sprouts. This response occurs because trees are resilient and will attempt to compensate for the loss of foliage by producing new growth in an effort to restore their canopy. The removal of the leaves reduces carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis, prompting the tree to initiate new growth to reclaim its energy balance.

When a tree undergoes severe heading, it creates an opportunity for the remaining buds along the cut branches to burst and produce new shoots. This is part of the tree's natural response mechanism to stimuli and stresses. As a result, such practices should be approached cautiously, as they can lead to excessive sprouting that may require additional management to prevent overcrowding or competition among the new branches.