Abstract: The growth of upward vertical fractures during a hydraulic fracturing process is inhibited or prevented by (1) initiating the fracture with a first fluid which is a pad fluid, and (2) extending the fracture with a second fluid comprising a carrier fluid and a bouyant inorganic diverting agent. The second fluid is preferably pumped at a minimum rate to extend the fracture and carry the diverting agent without screening out. After the diverting agent is implaced, a viscous pad fluid and fracture fluid are subsequently pumped at treatment rates and pressures to complete the fracturing process.