Trees, Shrubs and Conifers: Canopy thinning strategy, 1 by Maackia

Maackia wrote:
I've got a Kentucky Coffee Tree that I planted around 2000 (I keep detailed planting info, I just can't find it!). It has started to put on pretty rapid growth over the past couple of years, with the canopy having more than doubled in size. The growth on KCT's is so interesting to watch, when it seems to transform almost overnight from not much more than a stick figure to a lush, tropical looking tree with its huge compound leaves. My concern is that because its open grown with no protection from NW winds, it might be susceptible to being tipped by a strong wind. I've had this happen to a few other container grown trees, but it usually happens within the first couple of years after planting. I'm considering thinning the canopy by removing perhaps a couple of branches. While the trunk has expanded to about 2.5 inches diameter, I'm concerned the root development might not be keeping up with canopy growth to adequately anchor it. I'd prefer to just let it be, but I also don't want another leaning tree to deal with. any ideas/opinions on wisdom of thinning canopy? The pic is looking to SE.