Branch splitting for bending

[Webos]

If splitting a thick branch to bend down, would your split be vertical or horizontal through the branch? Can't quite picture what the branch will do during the bend.

Thanks

Adam

[Scott Roxburgh]

Not that I have ever used this technique, but I think that the branch would flatten out on the same plane as the cut/split.

I believe that Grant has split branches on both the horizontal and vertical planes.

My guess would be horizontal, good question though.

[Andrew Legg]

Adam,

I have not had loads of experience, but I've done a few trees with this technique. What I've done is split 4 ways and then bend and twist at the same time. As I understand it, if you don't twist when you bend, splitting actually achieves very little unless you split all the way to the end of the branch/trunk. Of course, because you are twisting, you must use a lot of support for the cambium layer to ensure it does not separate from the tree. I also think this is a very stressful process for the tree, so best done on a healthy tree.

Cheers,

Andrew

[Webos]

I performed the bend late last night and decided to split both horizontally and vertically. After raffia and quite an extreme bend, the branch really flattened out and before I'd known it, I had pretty much folded it about 90 degrees down and 90 degrees around . Hope it lives because it is going to be my crown. Haven't taken any photos yet.

Adam

[Scott Roxburgh]

Why not...post 'em!

[Webos]

I'll see if I can get home during my lunch break and take a couple of snaps. In so bad with recording my work. Really need to do so.

Adam