How would you deal with this?

WHITEPINE

Hi all,

Just a quick question this time: How would you deal with this broken sub branch scar? I broke it when I removed the wire. It was only a very small sub with one cluster of needles on it. Though as you can see, it has left quite a large and deep scar. I think that I must have removed it with a pulling action.

Also please find a picture of the wire damage to my JWP. I will complete the task of removing the wire today; though some narrow gauge wire is so deeply embedded in, I can’t get a grip with the cutters. I don’ really want to keep it in, so I’ll attempt to prize it out with something.


Thank for your help
Stephen

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	IMAG0083.JPG (49.7 KB, 77 views)
	IMAG0077.JPG (45.2 KB, 73 views)

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wabashene

Stephen,

The scar looks hefty and I suppose there is a chance that the branch might die off. If so there's potential to jin it. To try and save it I would put a big dab of cut paste (or Vaseline) to protect it and stop it bleeding all over the tree and see how it goes.

Just be as careful as you can removing the wire and make sure that you hold the branch nice and tight when you remove it so you don't flex it.

************

Some general comments re the tree.

You no doubt appreciate that this is a bonsai starter and should be treated as such. Also appreciate that its miles better than the usual " Here is my new bonsia (sic) , please tell me what to do," that is often posted on many forums.

However, you still probably have upwards of 5 years work ahead of you to "knock it into shape."

The right pic appears to an overhead shot and seems to show lots of sub branching which is very desireable. This gives you an opportunity to reduce branch length where/when necessary. Protect these areas and sub branches at all costs.

At some stage you will need to re-design this tree to bring the best out of it which may mean removing branches, reducing the height and wiring a downward rake on the main branches.

For instance, there appears to be what is called a "bar branch" effect going on. (see red lines) Generally considered undersireable.

Secondly, the first right branch is too low and long for the height (unless you reduce the height.

I've done a bit if a virt but have ended up with No2 branch on the inside of a curve also considered to be undisireable but hopefully this may give you some idea of a future direction - ish.

TimR

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jwp stephen.jpg (56.2 KB, 35 views)

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WHITEPINE

Hi,



Thanks Tim for your work. When I took a second look at the scar I was shocked to find how deep it was, especially considering that it was only a tiny sub branch. I also feel that it could die off. I ordered some cut paste three days ago, but regretfully it still hasn't arrived. It should have done, because the shop sent me an email on Thursday saying they had despatched it.



As for the style of the tree, I am looking to keep the informal upright going, though I realise that it will grow out of shape and I will have to put it back.



Should I put Vaseline over the scar until the cut paste arrives?



Best wishes

Stephen

wabashene

Won't do it any harm.
I've just been adjusting guy wires on mine and have a great big hole leaking sap where I pruned a branch off.

It's blown my homemade plasticine and vaseline plug right off so it's pumping sap like mad just now!

I've covered it with a dab of vaseline for now.

TimR

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