Many conifers - especially firs and spruces - can reach considerable heights after a few years. If you are standing in a garden, possibly in the front yard, a 30 or 40 meter high tree can quickly cause problems. However, before you put the saw on and cut the tip, it's best to read this article first. Shortening the tree in question is not always a good idea.
Does shortening conifers make sense?
Shortening conifers such as firs and spruces is not recommended as the dreaded loss of height does not occur and the stability and he alth of the tree can be impaired. It is better to allow the tree to grow naturally.
Supposed reasons for shortening a conifer
There are different reasons why cutting the top of a tree is supposedly necessary. In fact, you should not do it, because in most cases the expected effect will not occur or not as desired - not to mention that such a trimmed tree is anything but attractive.
Height of the tree
In many cases, the sheer height of the tree is the main reason for cutting it: Either the tree takes up too much space on your own property or that of your neighbor or there is a fear of it falling over (for example onto the roof of the house or garage).. Now it is the case that no tree simply accepts being cut back: the cut conifer also sprouts more strongly and therefore within a short period of time becomes just as tall, if not even taller, than before. However, it is then also unstable because several leading branches usually work to re-form the crown. This causes the weight in the tip to increase significantly, which in turn can result in partial or even complete breakage. So by trimming the top you achieve exactly the opposite of what you actually wanted to achieve - not to mention that you now have to trim the tree every year.
Life-prolonging measure
If there is a severe disease or pest infestation, some people recommend extending the lifespan of the conifer by trimming the top. Ultimately, the tree now has to supply fewer plant parts and can therefore concentrate better on fighting fungi and the like. The opinions of experts differ greatly here, although current teaching tends to be against a reduction. As is often the case, the measure does not necessarily have the desired effect, as pruning can also weaken the tree. He then has to fight on two fronts - he has to re-sprout and he is fighting the disease - and as a rule he cannot win this battle.
Tip
No matter how much the neighbor pushes, if the tall trees were there before him, he usually has to live with them. The felling and shortening of tall trees is also subject to strict legal regulations.