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Re: Trunk Chop Japanese Maple - Thoughts?

Posted: January 9th, 2017, 11:52 pm
by count_thumper
Hi All,

As mentioned I have completed the trunk chop: https://imgur.com/a/AwrfH (I would upload the images here, but my internet's damn slow!)

However after reading this: http://bonsaijournal.com/beginners-trunk-chop-101.php I believe that I may need to round this out? Is this the case or is the cut ok?

I did the chop about 2 -3 weeks ago, so if I do need to round it out, I'm guessing it's not too late?

Also is there any special care required after performing a trunk chop?

On another tangent, I'm thinking a couple years down the track performing another trunk chop to get rid of that ugly scar down the bottom. I bought the tree Like that, I'm not sure what they were thinking? :palm:

Many Thanks,
Mike

Re: Trunk Chop Japanese Maple - Thoughts?

Posted: January 10th, 2017, 5:26 pm
by shibui

Code: Select all

Also is there any special care required after performing a trunk chop?
Not really any special care required. Sealing the cut surface will help it heal over quicker.
I did the chop about 2 -3 weeks ago, so if I do need to round it out, I'm guessing it's not too late?
You can refine the cut any time after making the initial cut - days, weeks, months after.
I'm thinking a couple years down the track performing another trunk chop to get rid of that ugly scar down the bottom
How will you cut to get rid of that lower scar :lost: If you cut below that there will be almost no tree left. Better to seal the area with wound sealer and allow the tree to grow freely for a season or 2. You will be amazed how quickly even large scars can grow over and disappear.
BTW, that scar near the base is probably accidental. I think the tree may have been hit with something or maybe sunburnt.