So I know the options are to either...
1. Let it grow wild for a year - see what branches it throws out
2. Start doing some light training
- cut branches coming from the same area down to one, and those likely not in the final design (e.g. bottom left branch) to save the tree's energy for more useful branches
-loosely wire potential main branches while they are young to guide their growth - avoids wire marks I might get if left till they're harder
-wire new leader (although the obvious leader is already quite stiff, not sure I'd be able to wire it to the trunk as it's not quite at the top (hope this makes sense)
I've done quite a bit of research into this - both seem to have pros and cons. I'm not particularly fussed about thickening the trunk more. I think the current front will need to be the permanent front due to the scars on the back, I know these will heal partially over time, but I'm guessing they'll still be clear (and probably unsightly for a front). I'd also like to keep it a similar size to what it is now.
Not sure which is the better option...or something in between the two? After this initial advice on which approach, I think I'd like to work this tree with as little spoon feeding from you lovely people as possible...I mean that in a positive way! You guys are great, but I think I need to put on my big girl pants and just go for it, challenge myself and all that
So I guess my question is, do I start being a big girl now or next year?
Oh and please correct me if I've misunderstood anything I've read!
