Red Maple – Growth Spurt

Q: My young red maple has had a tremendous growth spurt this summer, mainly from the center trunk which has grown almost three feet. Should I leave it be and see if the tree fills in or should I trim it off to provide shape for the tree?

A: Generally speaking, trees will grow to an appropriate shape on their own. However, when they get lots of rain or fertilizer, growth spurts lead to long droopy limbs and trunks. You can shorten the long limb now with no harm to the tree.