digger714

Hello again, i have some Japanese Black Pines and some Austrian Pines. I bought them as starters, about 10" - 16" tall. They have branches coming out from the sides, well, most of them do. The main stalks are very tall. Should i reduce the height of them, or just let them grow? I have some planted in the ground with a stone under them to prevent the tap root from growing, and some under strong lights indoors. I suspect now would be the time to wire any i'd like to change the shape of? I know to reduce by cutting down to an existing branch and turning it into the new apex. But, what if it is a single stalk? Do i wait until there are branches to reduce? I want them to get thicker before potting, but want to make sure im getting them started the best way. Thanks for any help.

Brad

bwaynef

As much as you want to cut them back, letting them grow tall will help the trunk fatten quickly. Without seeing pictures I can't advise how far back you could safely cut (if you can't wait).

Even on shohin pines are allowed to grow long leaders to help fatten the lower trunk.

I'd still like to see pictures, but I'd get wire on the long, tall, unbranched pines and start developing a trunkline. Wiring it might stress 'em just enough to cause a branch to sprout.

digger714

No problem waiting. I thought that might be the case, but wanted to make sure. I have read that training should be started early on pines, so that was the reason for the question. I have wired the trees to get some trunk movement, so i guess im on the right track. Ill get some pics soon. Thanks for the advice.

Brad

bwaynef

Just remember that the movement in the trunks needs to be exaggerated because as it thickens the movement becomes less and less with the trunk filling in areas where the movement was more severe.