Prunus Incisa (Kojo-no-mai) prune, design and front help

[giventofly]

So I got this prunus from a nursery, did the initial general prune and a bit of wiring and now I'm a bit unsure about what front to select and after that is done wich branches to cut next.

My decision is between:
a)b)

I think in b) we can see the main trunk bend backwards, but in a) I think the secondary branches are more suitable for the future. My ideas for each front is something along like:



I didn't think I capture the main branch bend correctly in those pictures, so here are some side images:

 

[JudyB]

If you could take your photos at a flat angle to the tree like straight across, it would be easier to actually see what front is best.

 

[giventofly]

If you could take your photos at a flat angle to the tree like straight across, it would be easier to actually see what front is best.

Sorry here are they:

 

[JudyB]

I like the first pic side best of the two. Maybe do a little rotating one way or the other so the V is not straight in the center. Maybe a slightly different angle will minimize the sharp change of direction on the main trunk as well. When I'm not sure of the front of a project type tree, I put it in a round pot so I can look at it as I work it from every side. I find that as I work a tree, the best front can change with age and development.

 

[giventofly]

Yeah, that was the front I was more inclined too, thanks for tips

 

[penumbra]

I think I prefer the second pic. I would set the main trunk more vertical. A round pot is a good idea