What should I know about topping a bald cypress?

Answer by  ClaudiaD (136)

Pinch off new growth if you want to top your bald cypress. Prune throughout the summer, shape in the fall when the tree is dormant. In addition be prepared to do some root pruning since they can grow 3 feet in a single season. Prune every two or three years.

Answer by  Flutterbye (161)

Well here in the Alabama and Mississippi coastal areas they don't really need to be topped. Instead we thin the lower branches and limbs so that the bald cypress looks more tree like. Best rule of thumb is to remove any limbs that aren't going in the direction you want.

Answer by  DixieDaisy (112)

Expert opinion seems to indicate that a bald cypress should not be topped until it is fully developed because the shape changes from a conical shape as opposed to being spread out. The younger the cypress the more conical it is. Be patient as the tree is very hardy.