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Originally Posted by wouterotten
This oak is more than 30 years old and in training since 1993. I dug it from the wild. Any ideas/suggestions/constructive criticism?
(sorry for the bad quality of the photo)
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I think it is coming along nicely, as is. Your trunk chop was well placed and it has a good number of branches. The apex looks a little long and/or sparse, but that will change. It needs to be more rounded, rather than pointy (maybe you plan for this later). I only have two English oaks that I started from acorns from Sherwood Forest. Both are about eight years old. I'm amazed at how quickly they thicken up, even containerized. Watch wire carefully, it will bite in before you know it. Here in the Southern US, mine love full sun until the hot summer starts then they MUST be moved into more shade (the leaves will scorch). I have found they prefer deeper pots with good moisture retaining soil. Leaf size reduction is iffy, at best. They seem to grow in bunches/tufts at the terminal end of branches, and ramification is difficult. Still, a good oak specimen is awesome and worth the effort.
I lost a twenty plus year old one, because I kept it TOO moist. The root ball directly underneath the trunk slowly decayed and became fatal. I say that so you can guard from the same.
I understand oaks are prone to certain diseases and specifically mildew. I have not experienced that personally, but it does come from a respected source on English oak, Harry Tomlinson. A couple of years ago, Harry told me that personally, and I fully respect his judgement. I would believe your country would have a similar climate to England, so that should be good advice for you.
Good luck with your oak. I like the way it is shaping up.
Warmest regards,
John