Question
QUESTION: I planted this tree two years ago. It is standing about 5 feet now.
I am noticing that it is not getting taller. The branches are hanging strong and long towards the ground.
Is there anything I can do to prune it to make it grow taller.
Thamk you
Susan
Thank you  Susan

ANSWER: This is a very slow growing tree which only reaches about 20 feet at maturity. Pruning will not make it taller but may slow the growth in height. Most tree like young people grow in spirts. They concentrate on root growth then will put on height growth and this cycle will keep repeating itself. I would just relax and let it grow.

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QUESTION: If I need to concentrate as you mentioned on the root growth is their a fertilizer I should use and how often.
Thank you. Susan

Answer
I did not mean you need to concentrate on the roots I meant the growth of the tree is concentrated on the root system first to get system that can support and gather water and food for the manufacture of the foliage and limbs.

Evergreen trees don't need much fertilizer, just plenty of sunshine and water. In fact, it is so easy to kill a tree by over-fertilizing that we recommend not fertilizing unless your evergreens seem to be losing their dark green color due to a shortage of nutrients. A tablespoon of balanced fertilizer (labeled 10-10-10) sprinkled on top of the ground around each tree is fine. Let water bring the nutrients to the roots at a natural pace. Water the area after applying the fertilizer.

A good fertilizer for evergreens is Espoma Holly-tone 4-6-4 fertilize use the same 1 lb per inch of trunk diameter rate. this can be bought in smaller amounts than the 10-10-10.