Question
Last year, I planted an Elm tree in my backyard, and it is about 8' tall with the new growth. The trunk of the tree is less than an inch thick, so I am wondering if I should trim back the top branches so that it does not get too tall, too quickly, and then snap off if it gets windy. I do have a couple of bamboo stakes on each side of it to support it, but those won't do much if it gets alot bigger. I just want to do what is best for the long term health of this tree. Also, do you recommend fertilizing it, and if so, with what.

Answer
I would not trim it back just let it grow. Do not fertilize it right now since this will cause it to grow faster and taller without much diameter growth. Sounds like you have done all you can for support, a young tree can take a lot of wind bending without breaking.