Big old Larch Nebari

[Robsterios]

Nice old tree. I agree that it is too high in the pot. To be safe, at the next repotting, I would concentrate all my efforts on the region directly beneath the trunk.

Treeman - do you mean literally under the trunk or the root mass and soil surrounding the Nebari..?
I agree with all comments regarding getting it deeper in the pot - not sure what the base of the root mass is like, hopefully can reduce this as to avoid having to plant it in a deeper pot - would look odd imo... I planned on getting hold of an ever so slightly larger pot and perhaps a tad deeper.
Appreciate all the feedback so far.....

[bodhidharma]

A great project tree and worth staying with. If you read the thread that Mojo posted, and the link, my experience is limited with Larch. But what i have learnt is the roots are fragile but it does tolerate a decent root prune. I repot mine just as the buds are swelling but not bursting open and have found that to be middle/late August. You can also prune and strike cuttings at that time, although the success rate (for me) was 50%.Looking forward to its progression.

[treeman]

Treeman - do you mean literally under the trunk or the root mass and soil surrounding the Nebari..?

Right under the trunk. It's the place of least activity (water, air, fertilizer etc.) The water can only reach there by lateral movement unlike the rest of the root ball. It has to be periodically cleaned and opened up for the long term health of the tree.

[KIRKY]

Agree with Treeman, directly under the trunk needs to be cleaned out along with any downward growing roots. Also planted deeper. You should try to straighten the top section as I doubt there will be any give in the bottom half of the trunk. With regards to branches guy wire and also try weights to pull branches down over time. As to your original question what to do with the crusted dried moss on top. I would leave it as you don't want to damage any of the cracked/flakey bark as this is near impossible to regrow nicely. As winter is coming you will find that the moss may regrow and if it doesn't over winter being wet it will be easier to slowly scrap this area without the risk to the bark.
Great tree. Don't rush it and you will find over time you will have the tree you desire.
Cheers
Kirky