I have let this JBP grow unchecked for 4 years and plan to trim the roots soon for the first time and move into a shallower pot. The bark looks great and it is starting to backbud, but the base is still only 1" wide. To thicken the trunk should I trim/remove any branches or allow it to grow unchecked for another few years?
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There are a number of observations that should be shared at this point.
1. The tree is planted in such a way that it will cause considerable problems with the root ball formation long term. ( roots primarily on one side)
2. The trunk should be wired to create some movement in the lower portion while it is still possible.
3. Trunk thickening is primarily attained through apical leaders extending, not as much by sacrifice branches.
4. Some cut back is required in the next two or three years in order to begin back budding that will provide shoots for lower branching.
5. Be very careful to retain all lower buds and needles for as long as possible they will aid significantly in fostering further growth lower down in the trunk.
If this tree arrived in this condition in my care I would take the following steps.
1. Repot to determine how best to spread out and improve the root structure. I would select a wider but shallower container to grow out the tree while it is recovering from the repot. But leave it in a container until a basic root ball bonsai structure is formed and strengthened. Good approximate size is 5-6 inches deep and 14 to 16 inches square or round.
2. After the tree recovers from the repot ( end of this growing season) I would wire the trunk and create some movement in the lower portion. Easily done with #6 or #4 gauge copper wire at this stage of growth. There are a variety of methods and bending tools that can assist with this task. JBP with a trunk size of 1 inch is easily bendable with the proper approach.
3. Once the tree has recovered from the wiring and the root ball is well established then you could consider planting in the ground or grow bed. It is possible to continue with container growth and get a nice thick trunk. It will take a bit longer but there are advantages to continuing with a container.
The advantages are as follows.
1. It is easier to repot and continue to work on root structure while developing the tree.
2. It is easier to rotate and develop all sides of the tree. This is particularly useful to encourage back budding in certain locations.
3. It is easier to prune and wire on the bench rather than lay on the ground or stoop over to accomplish the same.
4. It is easier to judge your developmental work on a turntable rather than scoot around the tree while laying on your belly.
5. For many climates, container growth allows for protection within climatic limitations. such as too much rain, or too cold for JBP over winter.
6. Not all locations have suitable ground growing soil for JBP.
Some observations for your consideration.
Best in Bonsai
. Ground grow, grow box or grow bag in ground for trunk size.
