Quck answer
Maple trees can grow quite large, but there are ways to keep them small. Pruning is essential to control their size and shape. It is best to start pruning when the tree is young to establish the desired structure. Regularly remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossing branches that may cause rubbing or crowding. Thinning the canopy will also help to reduce the tree’s size. Additionally, selective pruning can be done to limit upward growth. It is important to consult a professional arborist for guidance on proper pruning techniques to ensure the health and longevity of the tree.
Maple trees come in various colors and types and can grow anywhere from 25 to 90 feet tall, depending on the species. When planting a tree, many people overlook the fact that a small sapling will eventually grow into a large tree over the course of 20 or 30 years. If the tree is planted in a yard that cannot accommodate its size, measures must be taken to control or relocate the tree.
While there are no commercial products available to restrict growth, there are several approaches to manage the height of a mature maple tree.
Step 1
Conduct research on the specific variety of maple tree you want to control. How tall does it typically grow? Is it planted in soil conducive to reaching its full height? How quickly does it grow? If the tree’s growth rate is only 2 to 3 inches per year, you may have less work to do than if it grows 12 inches during the summer months.
Step 2
Prune the tree annually until it reaches the desired height. From then on, you will need to continue cutting the tree back below that point each fall or early spring, allowing for new growth during the warmer months.
Step 3
Constrain the tree by planting it in a pot or container on your porch, patio, or deck. The tree’s growth will be limited by the size of the root system that the container can support, preventing it from reaching its usual heights.
Step 4
Consult an arborist, a tree specialist, to determine the proper pruning techniques to keep the tree healthy while maintaining its desired height.
