Keeping large trees to a manageable size

[dean7276]

I have a Spanish Fir and a Himalayan Cedar that I just purchased. They are currently about 1 ft tall. I understand that in time they can reach 30 or 40 feet in height but the locations I'd like to plant them will not accommodate that. Can I keep them trimmed/pruned to stay at a more manageable size of 8 or 10 feet? Or will that damage them?

 

[Seachaser]

Yes you can and yes you can damage them. Most evergreens thrive on a central leader.

 

[uniballer]

We usually talk about planting the right tree in the right place. You are talking about the opposite of that.

There is a possibility that a chemical Tree Growth Regulator (e.g. paclobutrazol) could help you, but you would have to keep it up for many years. I can't say if it would be worth it, or if there are unknown long term consequences to the environment from these chemicals.

 

[TheJollyLogger]

I have a Spanish Fir and a Himalayan Cedar that I just purchased. They are currently about 1 ft tall. I understand that in time they can reach 30 or 40 feet in height but the locations I'd like to plant them will not accommodate that. Can I keep them trimmed/pruned to stay at a more manageable size of 8 or 10 feet? Or will that damage them?

Those varietals actually have a mature height closer to 100'. I'm not sure why you chose those 2 particular trees, but if you try to keep them pruned to an 8-10' height don't expect them to resemble any specimens or pictures you have seen, provided they survive such severe pruning. Honestly, it will be a maintenance nightmare. As the root system expands they will become more aggressive.

 

[uniballer]

Are you really sure you don't want to try a nice dwarf alberta spruce?

 

[TheJollyLogger]

Are you really sure you don't want to try a nice dwarf alberta spruce?

Alberta spruce are a little tough in Texas, summers are just too hot