AusBonsai

Would you layer this tree?
The trunk was split 3 years ago to help with the straightness.
The split doesn't bother me but I think the tree may be improved if shortened??
It was layered originally to make a broom.

I'm thinking here

I agree it seems unbalanced.
The alternative would be to expand the canopy... Just to bring it in balance with the trunk...

What's its current proportions?

Would expanding the canopy make it a giant? I'm not sure shortening would be the best option... To me, then the trunk would be out of balance with the rest of the tree.


Cheers
Elmar

I like the shorter version.

The left branch looks better as a secondary trunk with your proposed layer location.

What does it look like from other angles?

I don't like the big scar between the two trunks. I'm assuming that's from a big trunk chop? I think turning it 20 degrees to the left help hide the cut, and the secondary trunk will add a bit more depth.

Elmar wrote:I agree it seems unbalanced.
The alternative would be to expand the canopy... Just to bring it in balance with the trunk...

I'd be having a crack at something like this... just for something different...
Seems like a good candidate, and easier than redeveloping the appropriate nebari after layering .

I think the shorter version you proposed looks a bit too short. By all means ground-layer and bring it down a tad if you want, but I think expanding the canopy is a good option.

treeman wrote:

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Ditto

Elmar wrote:

What's its current proportions?

About 50 x 30 ish

MoGanic wrote:

treeman wrote:

004 - Copy.JPG

Ditto

Nice virt! I like where you're taking it.

I personally like it as is, a bit more ramifications development on top of what is already there though of course.
Reminds me of a lot of the older elms I saw in England when I was living there; thick trunks, big Long scars and canopies coming from the high on those thick trunks.

I agree that the tree would look better and actually quite good if you broadened (but not heightened) the canopy.

However, if you are willing to put in the work and time, Treeman's virt would result in an even better tree in the long term.


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treeman wrote:

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I like it Treeman! Looks less broom style and more mother-daughter tree there.

like the bigger canopy idea ----have you considered widening the scar towards the top as well---then airlayering later if this doesn't work

One more vote for a layer.

I'm voting with Hugh and say more refinement and no layer.