yes.. i have a suggestion ...

lets see a picture ...

i dont think anyone here advocates .. nor agrees with topping trees ... and removing the top half of a tree is such ...

what i dont know.. is if a CM can be cut to the ground.. and rejuvenated ....

in other words.. maybe there is another option ...

ken

You'd probably be better off removing it completely (be sure to kill the roots, to avoid a massive amount of root suckers, if you choose to do this) and replacing it with something more appropriate to the space. There are many crape myrtles, for instance, that stay smaller, at least for a long time.

Alternately, you could try to perform "proper" reduction cuts, if there is sufficient branching at lower levels. One downside to doing this is that you will have to maintain a regular pruning schedule, because the tree is going to want to regrow to it's natural height. You may also have a problem with lots of root suckers appearing in response to significant pruning. Reduction cuts (rather than the crape-murder type heading cuts) will somewhat reduce chances of rot but certainly don't eliminate the possibility.

A third option is to cut the tree down to just above ground level and allow it to resprout. If you do that, you'll be faced with frequent sucker removal (if you want to limit the amount of trunks) for at least a couple of years AND the ongoing need for close attention to pruning. Another disadvantage of this method is the likelihood of long floppy trunks, due to the rapid regrowth following coppicing. You'd probably need to stake or tie the trunks for at least the first couple of years.

Removal/replacement is probably the less labor-intensive option.

First i will try to get a picture on here when the weather changes. It is my fault for under estimating the size and height of it. i didn't mention it also only blooms sparingly on the top limbs. i know if i take it out i am going to miss the shade, it on the south side next to my deck.