Question From: J. SHERBY - East Brunswick, New Jersey, United States
Q: HELP !! My balsam pine ( now 5 years old and 5 foot tall ) went crazy with new growth this year , almost 18 inches of top stalk to the point where this thing is ugly and leggy. it has no real side buds from last years growth that have helped to bush it out with side growth. If i deadhead the top, will the main center stem split itself? or should i just leave it alone? ( Man this thing looks ugly...))
A: I believe your ugly tree is a balsam fir. Generally topping trees is not recommended. I suggest you take a photo of the tree to a nursery or independent garden center that sell these trees for advice. Balsam firs are usually sheared in spring to encourage branching. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy
