Hello,

We just noticed that one of our two miniature evergreen trees (see photo) has a vertical offshoot we haven't seen before. The other tree of the same type does not have a similar growth. Can someone explain its purpose and what, if anything, we should do about it. Leave it be? Cut it off?

Thanks,
Bill

That looks like normal growth. If you cut it off the tree will probably branch out.

so if it is not cut off the tree will grow taller, rather than wider?

It will grow in the shape natural for the plant if uncut. If cut it will probably fork at the top.