Kaede (Trident jp maple) project

[Burusu]

Hello all,
This trunk is way too long. Don't you think?
Air layering here a good idea? I have no idea what I'm doing.
Let me know...

 

[MrWunderful]

Air layer whatever you want, but the sooner you chop lower (to the first branch) the better to develop taper, if a quality, aged tree look is your goal.

If it were mine, i would chop even lower if I could get a bud to pop. Like halfway between the first branch and the roots.

 

[leatherback]

Yes, layer.

I am concerned by the first 2 inches of trunk from the roots. It looks like somehow it is thinner than the trunk above it. IF you develop the base further keep an eye out.

The spot you chose is not where I would layer though. In blue the positions I would consider for layering, based on existing taper and / or low branches.

 

[sorce]

Welcome to Crazy!

Sorce

 

[Burusu]

Ok, I see. Thanks for your guidance.
I will first wait for a couple of leaves to show up, then will air-layer at the lowest blue line (thanks Leaderback!), and hopefully, by July, will be able to chop off !
Way to go !

 

[Burusu]

And btw, the photo looks funny in the first inch of trunk, the trunk is brown-ish with the angle and it looks thinner, but no, the trunk is wide and nice there...