Dav4

Jim and Si, you have both contributed very thoughtful remarks about this tree, and I thank you. You should both know that the current image is essentially what I envisioned when I started training this tree last year. I initially kept the lower right branch because I thought it helped to balance the tree and I posted the tree partially to see what people thought about that lower branch. I respect the opinions of many of the folks here. I also respect the opinions of the folks who got to see it in person. Ultimately, it was my decision, and in the end, it was removed because I felt the tree looked better without it. All other options were considered; double trunk, making the low branch the apex, reducing the foliage, etc.. My instincts primarily led me to remove the branch. I didn't feel forced by others into making the decision. I feel comfortable with it as it is. Hopefully, the tree and my photography will improve by the next update.


Dave