Acer Seiryu

I have just acquired an Acer Seiryu, something that I've been looking for. So I jumped at it and bought it then realised that perhaps this one is not suited to growing into a single-trunked tree because of the way it splits into 4 branches which in turn split again.

So my questions are:

* Would that junction of trunk and branches keep getting higher? Or am I going to end up with a shrubby-looking tree that always is going to have the branches coming out 10" above the ground?

* What do I need to do to end up with a single trunked tree?

Thanks for your help.

Mrs Flowers

 

"Would that junction of trunk and branches keep getting higher?"

No, you'll have to cut off everything EXCEPT the single trunk you want to keep (to make a standard).

However, the lower branches, if kept for a while, help to thicken up the main trunk ... so there is a trade-off between having "nothing" on the plant, and some lower branches contributing to the thicken of the trunk - which are later cut off.

 

Thanks for your advice Kristen.

Having killed one acer cutting it back (albeit in early Spring which I don't think you're supposed to), I'm terrified at the thought of taking off 3 major branches out of four and leaving just one skinny branch to become the leader. And do the thicknesses of the branch and trunk eventually even out?

It seems like it would set the tree back so much even if it doesn't kill it. Or am i just being a squeamish beginner? The more I read, the more I'm confused. I was reading some guy saying how some acers can sulk after a prune and decide to take two years dying. Some say prune anytime, some say only when it's dormant. I'm considering just letting it grow the way it is. Then look for a more suitable specimen for a standard then grow that one that way instead. A garden can always use another acer, I think. They are just so beautiful.

?*!?:**?,
Mrs Flowers

 

Let me see a pic Mrs Flowers and i will try to help

 

Hi Sam

I'm gonna take a picture and post it ASAP.
I just put it in the ground yesterday. had to clip some of the branches back because it was dying back and showing black.

There's one bit of black that I'm loathe to cut because it's quite low down.
Will be back w photos.

ms flowers