Supposed reasons for shortening a conifer
There are different reasons why it is supposedly necessary to cut the tree top. In fact, you shouldn't do it, because in most cases the expected effect will not occur or not as desired - quite apart from the fact that such a cut tree is anything but attractive.
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Height of the tree
In many cases, the sheer height of the tree is the main reason for shortening: Either the tree takes up too much space on your own property or on that of the neighbor, or it is feared that it will fall over (on the roof of a house or garage, for example). Now it is the case that no tree simply accepts a pruning: The trimmed conifer also sprouts more strongly and therefore becomes just as high, if not even higher, within a short time. However, it is then also unstable, as several leading branches usually start to rebuild the crown. As a result, the weight increases sharply at the tip, which in turn can result in partial or even complete breaking off. So by capping the tip you achieve exactly the opposite of what you actually wanted to achieve - not to mention,that you have to cut the tree every year now.
Life-extending measure
In the event of a severe disease or pest infestation, some advise to extend the life of the conifer by cutting the tip. After all, the tree now has to supply fewer parts of the plant and can thus concentrate better on combating fungi and the like. Here, the opinions of experts differ widely, although today's doctrine is more against a cut. As is so often the case, the measure does not necessarily have the desired effect, as pruning can also weaken the tree. Then he has to fight on two fronts - he has to drive out again and is fighting the disease - and usually cannot win this fight.
Tips
Even if the neighbor is pushing: if the tall trees were there in front of him, he usually has to live with them. The felling and shortening of tall trees is also subject to strict legal regulations.
