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Topping Monkey Puzzle Tree

Margaret 15Margaret 15 Posts: 2
in Plants

I have a monkey puzzle tree that is about 25ft high. Can I top it to keep it manageable or will it kill it.

Posts

  • Tropical SamTropical Sam Posts: 1,488

    You will kill it (as growth comes from the leader only) and make it look terrible, just terrible until it dies. If you really must 'top it' then just cut the whole thing down and plant a more suitable plant.

  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 82,740

    You beat me to it blairs - absolutely agree. 

    “I am not lost, for I know where I am. But however, where I am may be lost.” Winnie the Pooh







  • Margaret 15Margaret 15 Posts: 2

    Thanks blairs. I thought that might be the case.

  • fidgetbonesfidgetbones Posts: 16,527

    Yes, it would totally ruin the shape. If its too big, take it out and plant something more suitable.

  • artjakartjak Posts: 4,167

    Horrible things; they try to take your eye out if you try to weed near them.

  • Tropical SamTropical Sam Posts: 1,488

    They are great trees. I prefer the juvenile growth but the adult form is also worthy of any park or large garden. I have seen many a Monkey Puzzle tree towering over a tiny urban garden and house, its lower branches cut away. It really does not do it justice. Rather than maul it you are better to remove - right plant for right place is the gardeners motto!

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