On Feb 14, 2:54*pm, Allen wrote:
To the Group:

I have 5 oak trees (red oak, not totally sure) I started from seed and
they are more than 4 years old.
One, however, has two branches, it looks exactly like a Y with budding
leaves on each of the branches of the Y and they are about 1/2" in
size. They are currently (Feb 14th - Maryland) kept indoors, in the
summer I keep them outside. * I believe they need to be pruned but I
can't seem to find clear instruction in terms of how and when
exactly.
Allen,
First of all, red oak, or any of our Northeastern oaks, are not
considered good bonsai material. You may learn something by practicing
on them, but they won't become bonsai.
Do not keep hardy trees indoors at any time. During the winter, they
need to be kept dormant in a cold sheltered spot, like a garage or
enclosed porch.
In the future, when you have seedlings or young trees, a straight
trunk is not desirable unless you are planning a formal group
planting. You need to wire some curves into the trunk before it gets
too stiff. Outside of that, your trees don't need much pruning yet.
On the one that is Y shaped, you need to cut off one top so that you
have a single trunk. Cut off the stronger top.
Join the nearest bonsai club. There are several in Maryland. Join the
Internet Bonsai Club. I will send you the link after I finish this.
Get some bonsai books out of the library.
Iris