Limb it up; it'll still look good and you won't have to do all that work.

It will grow to be a good sized tree - it is not a shrub. It grows to 40 feet tall in optimal conditions.

Here is a link that might be useful: information on it

Don't forget your other choice, Donna. Remove it entirely. That's a perfectly legitimate option that should occur to us more often. Instead, we're held 'hostage' bya plant that has outgrown its welcome.

never shear a tree ... or a conifer ... IMHO

limb it up... and if you dont like it.. then go with what rhiz said ....

its an invasive weed in most areas of the country ... as indicated by you 'finding it' in your yard ... lol ...

if you cant find something better for the space given.. you arent trying very hard ...

as noted.. that cute babe.. is actually a large ugly conifer [see link] ... and IMHO.. not worth the space ... and i am surprised you havent run across many tiny babes in your garden ... if so.. get rid of momma and treasure her progeny ...

ken

Here is a link that might be useful: link

Excellent advise, all. I rather like the big old cedars once they get solid trunks and open crowns. Just don't know if I have room for that where it is. Thanks, you are right. Ken, I know you are very knowledgeable about conifers, so no shearing. I think I will try limbing it up, and then evaluate whether it stays or goes.... Thanks for the nudge, rhizo.