Rowdy

I picked up a couple acer saplings about as thick as a pencil they have vigorous new shoots, am planning on planting them in large pots for a couple years to build em out. i dont really want to do too many trunk chops, can or should i prune new growth to promote more branching and more compact branches? and if so what is the best way. or should o just let it go wild? also what soil mix do you all recommend for acer? i'm in zone 6b

Mike423

If possible I would recommend just planting them in the ground using the tile method to get a nice nebari. Let them grow and pinch as needed to form the first year, doing the same for about five years with some additional defoliation during the summer to help promote ramification and you should have some nice stock in about 4-5 years. Keep in mind chops on the tree are not always a bad thing, as if the are correctly cared for afterward can heal to almost not being noticeble in just a few years (of coarse it will take longer depending on trunk diameter, vigor of the tree etc..).

Rowdy

the main reason for large pots is i rent where i live not sure if i will be here year to year. would like to be mobile if i have to up and relocate. what would be your suggestion for soil type? also where and when to pinch back growth, i dont mind doing chops as im sure it will need it but i want to avoid doing too many chops and would like it to grow out naturally compact also.