Tony

Yes, the wrapping does keep the buds from growing from the wraped area but that's good. For a broom style you want the new buds at the top of the chop, growing in a upward direction. I think Naka uses raffia or something to bind the top. I usually get a piece of rubber hose with an inside diameter the same size as the trunk, split it length ways, and wrap that around it, then put a hose clamp over it for added pressure. It serves the purpose and is whole lot quicker.

By the way, Steven, you haven't told us what kind of trees you're working with. Chopping below the existing branches will kill many trees and getting buds to break at the top of the chop is a crap shoot at best, so get specific information before you do something drastic.

Fred, For the life of me I can't see why Naka says to do that V cut for a broom style. Doesn't make since to me. Does he say why in his book?

Tony