AusBonsai

I posted this tree a year or so ago as a problem tree, but I can't find the thread - here goes anyway.

I don't like this tree as is - it just looks clunky. The "negative spaces" under the first four branches are very rectangular - the roots and these branches are all dead level and square. The trunk just wanders around for no good reason, and the top third is just ugly. I thought maybe if I shortened the roots, there'd be less "squareness". Tested out through the magic of virtual black plastic - Then maybe lose one of the strongly horizontal branches - If I lean the trunk to the left, and rotate it clockwise (left side backwards) the trunk starts to look three dimensional - The low left branch is now pointing backwards, but I'll have to regrow the top anyway - plenty of time to sort the low branches as well. It's not good, but it's better, and it has a core to it now. It's been planted deep in a black pot, to get roots growing from some largish root cuts. Coupla more years....

Gavin

Not often you display your work Mr G but a good job to be sure. On the nearly top left hand side could you knob cut the lump out and develop the lower branch. Then select a leader and (deathly silence, sshhh) do a bit of WIRING.

Looks better to me.
Good traditional evaluation techniques too!

Don't hold your breath Bodhi, you may turn an undignified shade of blue. Thanks for the comments gentlemen.

Gavin

Hmm, good specimen but the roots could do with some attention.