Seriyu seedlings

[Damian Bee]

Grown from seed collected and sown around 5 years ago, here they are today.
The 2 are quite different in growth habit and in leaf shape/color.

First is the larger one.

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and then there is this one.

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I want to repot them as they will be well and truly awake underground, any suggestions for styling/chops are welcome

[shibui]

I grew seed of seryu a couple of years ago and got mostly strong growing seedlings with normal Japanese maple leaves but 1 with deeply cut leaves and cascade habit so not surprised you have variability.

Where you cut depends on what you want to create and , with trunks this size, where the roots are. Personally I'd cut low to get taper into the trunks. Hard to tell in photos but possibly no 1 above first (big) branch? no 2 either at first branch or at the upright branch at rear?? If you don't mind trees with little taper then cut higher.

[Scott Roxburgh]

Nice low movement, and as with Shibui, I'd cut low.

I'd go for the first large branch this year and then wire the low little one for movement as the new leader, then cut to back to it later.

Go for Shohin!

[Damian Bee]

Thanks for the feedback guys. With these maples, can I cut them back now?

[shibui]

I have done some of mine already. I prefer to prune them early. They tend to 'bleed' profusely if cut near budburst but cutting the roots seems to stop that almost instantly. I'd cut back and root prune at the same time - for me, end of July or Aug, for you maybe a little earlier? Can be done now but do not keep it too wet after. It is always better to see what the roots are really like so you can make a better choice of where to cut anyway - shape of trunk, possible front, any branches, etc.

[Damian Bee]

Bigger brother after a repot.

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Looking it this Maple it has some challenges in store for me, it may not make a great piece of work but time will tell. Any pointers or slaps on the wrist are welcome

[Damian Bee]

Ps. Sorry Shibui and Scott, not going for Shohin, (at least not yet).
Trying to take advantage of those elegant curves