Forcing a branch using trunk benders.

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Eusto
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Forcing a branch using trunk benders.

Post by Eusto »

Hi All,

I've noticed on my large chinese elm when i was using a trunk bender on some of the larger braches, it forces new growth. Has anyone noticed this before? New growth appears on the branch at the point of most stress, right on the bend.
I'm just wonderin is it only Chinese Elms this works on or are there other species this can be done?

This little tip can be useful if you require a new branch in a bare spot on the trunk.
Scott Roxburgh
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Re: Forcing a branch using trunk benders.

Post by Scott Roxburgh »

I've noticed that wiring stimulates back budding on Black Pine and Shimpaku too.
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Re: Forcing a branch using trunk benders.

Post by shibui »

Interrupting the flow of sap often stimulates budding on many species but sadly it is not always a sure thing.
A horizontal cut through the bark and cambium ABOVE a bud is supposed to start the bud growing because it cuts off the supply of hormones coming down from the growing tip that normally suppresses lower growth. I'm guessing this is what the bending and wiring is doing as well.
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