Question
I planted some red wood trees (3) about three years ago.  They appear to be doing fine and are about 10 to 12 feet tall.  I have heard you should cut the limbs off the bottom to make them grow taller.  Right not the bottom branches are about 3 to 4 feet long and are at about ground level.  Should I trim the off the bottom or let the tree grow natually?  If I do trim the bottom how high up should I trim, one foot, two foot or higher from the ground?  Any input on how to get them to grow faster would be great as well.  

thanks,

Rick

Answer
I would not prune the lower limbs at this time. It will have no effect on the height growth of the tree. Naturally they will grow with limbs to the ground and as the tree gets older it will self prune the lower limbs. If the trees are three years old and 12 feet tall they are growing well. As long as the tree puts on height growth each year I would leave it alone and enjoy it.