This is a Pinus Nigra Maritima which was collected 3 years ago . It had 2 thick leaders removed when collected and the new leader being a younger side branch was allowed to grow on un-hindered until today . With a lot of material in need of a fresh approach i have decided to pre train this into an informal slanting style . Most would look at a trunk like this and make an informal upright but i think it needs a little more in addition to the shape . Tilting the tree gives a completely different feel to the trunk and a more pleasing outlook for this tree . I have cut the lower branches back and wired them for future jin’s and the apex has had a guide wire placed on the apex and down to an existing stub . I removed a few underside branches in the apex and wired the upper apex for styling . With the pre styling done its a matter of trimming the needles back , removing a few of the many buds in the apex and it is  almost  finished as a trainer , the upper branches will be wired in due coarse .This won’t get a re- pot until next winter . The lowest branch has been retained for a sacrifice branch to aid in the swelling of the lower trunk , a small reverse taper needs rectifying . These Pinus Nigra’s all back bud well on material under  8-10 years old as is the case with the new apex on this tree , originally it was a side branch .The base itself is estimated at around the 20 years old .Finished height is around 400-450 mm and with a 40 mm base

 

Cheers Alpineart

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