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bonsaiTALK Master Craftsman
Join Date: Sep-2004
Location: Bartlesville OK
Country: USA
Posts: 839
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Non Traditional Species-Nandina Project
Here's one that I bought from my local greenhouse. I loved it the first time I saw it, because I think it has potential. I didn't get it at the time, however, because having just bought the house, I couldn't justify the price to my hubby.
I went back this winter just to see if it was still there. They sold it to me for less than half price because it was "ugly." Plus, she knew what I was going to do with it.
Problems;
1. It's a nandina; therefore, not alot of wiring options.
2. Currently, the rootball is huge. Might not want to reduce it too fast.
3. It actually has two trunks that come up from the base. Either I will have to lose one or make it a twin trunk.
4. Possible danger of reverse taper where the two trunks separate.
5. Further limiting my options is the reclining trunk. It measures four inches across if left in its current position. If it is planted at a new angle, major work might have to be done.
Strengths;
1. Unusually substantial base for this species.
2. Beautifully fissured bark, which is again, rarely seen with these in zone 6.
3. Colorful and delicate foliage in all seasons-if I can pull it off, I might be able to mimic the lacy canopies of Japanese Maples.
4. A striking sweep in the base-just what do I do with it though?
Now, as you can see, the cons out number the pros. BUT, I just like this particular plant. So, in this case, I went with my "gut" and we'll see how it looks by the end of March after it gets its first styling.
:::EDIT:::...And a virt for maybe the first few stages of styling.
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