Tree Growth Control
Large trees are beautiful, stately, and valuable assets in any yard. However, allowing a tree to grow as large and quickly as possible is not always in the best interest of your tree or your property. In fact, slow-growing trees can be healthier than their fast-growing counterparts, and they often live longer. This is especially true in situations where there is limited space for the tree and its root system, or there are obstacles that limit the amount of water and nutrients available to the tree.
Our experts are leaders in preserving the health of trees in Minnesota!
What is growth control?
Growth control treatments using tree growth regulators slow the vegetative growth of trees and shrubs. Tree growth regulators were first used for plants growing in large expanses, such as trees growing under utility lines or extremely long rows of shrubs in housing developments or commercial campuses. Treatments are applied after trimming (pruning). In addition to extending the time between pruning cycles, controlling growth can benefit tree and shrub health. Growth control:
- Increases the growth of fine roots needed to pull water and nutrients from the soil.
- Helps trees tolerate drought.
- Can extend the life of a tree growing in a constricted space, such as near buildings or retaining walls.
When is it beneficial to use growth control?
The tree we see above ground is actually only half of the tree. Underground, the tree’s root system needs just as much space to grow as the branches do above ground. Roots are vital to a tree’s health, but can suffer damage from things like foot traffic that packs down the soil, reducing the amount of air and water available, or from construction activity that can sever roots or crowd them out. Growth control treatments are recommended when:
- There is limited space for the tree’s canopy or root system.
- The tree was planted in a space that is not large enough for its mature size.
- Tree roots are interfering with sidewalks, foundations, or other landscape features.
- The root system is circling the tree’s trunk, “choking” the tree (girdling roots).
- The tree is intruding into a neighboring yard or structure.
Growth control for trees
Trees growing in cities or between buildings provide precious shade, natural beauty, and privacy. Unfortunately, these locations also make stressful growing environments. Using growth-regulating products as part of a comprehensive maintenance plan can allow arborists to preserve trees and extend the lives of these high-value natural assets. You can learn more about how arborists manage tree growth control and the growth regulators they use.
Growth control for shrubs
Specially formulated growth regulators are now available for use on shrubs, small trees, and bedding plants. These treatments reduce shoot growth and help plants maintain a compact, manicured look. They also provide the same benefits to root systems and plant health that are produced by the products used on trees.
Contact the experts
If you live in the Twin Cities area and have trees or shrubs growing in challenging locations, schedule a consultation with one of our ISA-certified experts. They will inspect your trees, as well as the surrounding site, to develop a care plan that gives your trees the best chances to thrive!
