Stop tree from growing upwards?

Question

Is there anyway to stop my tree from growing taller but instead grow sideway with more branches/leaves?

Answer 1

Trees have a tendency to grow taller. They grow toward light. Most trees can be pruned, but this produces more branches that will eventually grow upward.

If the tree's habit is to grow taller, that's what it's going to do. Pruning will temporarily give you a more "sideways" appearance, because you cut the "tall" shoots off- but they will grow upward again.

Answer 2

Prune, but don't "top" or "pollard" -- it creates some really nasty and dangerous tree limbs later. Not to mention it won't work in the long run.
http://www.plantamnesty.org/stoptopping/5reasonstostoptopping.htm
http://www.plantamnesty.org/plant_prune.htm

It may be a good idea to choose a different species to plant instead of what you've got -- different species and cultivars have very different crown shapes. For instance, if you're looking for a small specimen tree with more of a horizontal line to it, redbud would be a better choice for your purpose than, say, a callery pear.

http://www.hoffmannurseryinc.com/images/Redbud.jpg
http://www.farmerfred.com/10toughtrees.htm

Pruning should be done to enhance the natural form of a tree and to take care of such issues as crossing branches, but not to try to extensively reshape into something the tree's genetics don't want to let it be.

Answer 3

You can try to prune or top a tree to alter its shape, but I feel you are fighting a loosing battle. The genes of the tree dictate their growth habit. If you try to change it, you will have a yearly pruning project. If this is what you want to do, go for it.

Answer 4

Prune the top off, be careful

Answer 5

Cut the leader stem and this will promote lateral growth.

Answer 6

you have to prune the top

Answer 7

You need to prune it.