QuestionI have a pink dogwood tree that has doubled in height in just two years (tall & thin) I would like to keep it shorter - can I cut the top off and if so how much and when it the right time to do it?
AnswerI would not recommend it. Topping of trees at best make them bushes--at worst could allow insects and disease to enter the tree. IF you just have to-- do the pruning just after the tree blooms this will allow new flower buds to form for the next year. If you prune in the fall or winter the you will cut off flower buds and not have as many flowers the next spring.
