In a message dated 1/6/2004 1:25:55 AM Eastern Standard Time,
writes:
have chopped some 1"+ (3 cm) nursery stock back to the low weak branches
that form in the initial whorl. They normally sulk for a year before these
branches start to grow vigorously. However, this often gives a short fat
trunk that I think can be developed in a reasonably nice small tree in about
5-10 years after the chop.
Marty:

As you imply, the Scots Pine is an extremely vigorous and forgiving specimen,
and "young" specimens will throw buds virtually everywhere when cut.

My response was in reference to chopping "mature" specimens, i.e., trees with
trunks presenting 5+ inch diameters: these tree do not respond well to
chops. If the practitioner is lucky enough to evoke a bud break near the chop
line, it is also less likely that a suitable taper can be developed to support the
bonsai illusion.

Cordially,

Michael Persiano
http://members.aol.com/iasnob/index.html

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