Tree In Training For Hokidachi

veblen

Hi,

First I would like to thank everyone on this forum. I have learned a great deal and need to learn much more.

Can anyone identify this tree?

It is 11" to the first branch and 22" in height.

I am hoping that in 10 years it will resemble a broom style. The tree lived through the winter and now I will be patient.

I do have a few questions:

1. Fertilizer - ideas? Type? Frequency, etc?
2. How should I proceed over the next few seasons.
3. My soil mixture is approximately 50/50 peat/firbark. Good, Bad, What?
4. Any other suggestions on development, etc. would be appreciated.

BTW, where can I order online John Naka's books techniques I and II?

As always looking forward to your responses.

V.

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veblen

The Tree.

I had to crop this thing so much ... jeez.

What am I doing wrong with my digital camea.

Anyway, please attempt to help.

V.

Attached Images

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veblen

A Better Image ... I'll try again tomorrow.

Attached Images

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DavidN

V
Once the leaves come out then maybe we will be able to tell you what it is.
You have to decide on how fat you want the trunk to be. The simple answer is to let it grow unhindered until you have the trunk thickness you want for broom style. Once you have the thickness in trunk then you can do your V trunk chop and grow your branches. Feed heavily(every two weeks, half strength liquid solution) in growing season. At least you know it will take you some time before it will be developed into a nice broom style.

__________________
Bonsai Northwest Inc, Melbourne, Australia

Bonsai Flora Nursery in Yarraville, Melbourne

veblen

Thanks for your reply David.

If you search for "Japanese Zelkova Defoliation" - Gary S. over many years created a broom style tree from a seedling. That is what I am trying to do with this tree.

I have trunck chopped 4 other trees that I will see if anything grows out the top - nothing so far.

I'm trying a couple techniques at broom styling trees.

Thanks again.

V.