Hi Michael - We shear, shape & correct Douglas Fir in particular precisely because they don't typically grow in an organized manner - the tops in general and leader in particular are notorious for needing expert correction so that they grow straight and in the appropriate proportion to the tree. Contrary to your thoughts that the "growth pattern is ruined" after shearing, it is exactly the opposite - a properly sheared tree is fully prepared either to be cut or to continue growing in the field and then be again correctly shaped the following year without issue. Finally, Douglas Fir are essentially unsaleable unless sheared, thus we offer the more open, natural Colorado Blue Spruce for customers whose aesthetic is geared more towards a less full texture & appearance.

Hi Michael - the unfortunate fact of not shearing Douglas Fir for even one year once they are 4' or so tall is that they become ungainly and unsaleable...we do apply a variety of shearing techniques, such that some are a bit more "natural" than others. Ask for me (Steven) specifically in 2018 or beyond and I can point you to some different options. Thanks for the comment!!