contorted fuji cherry/kojo no mai - in development

[WEI]

think this tree deserves its own thread, as it's one of only a few I am keeping for a cross-state move. I acquired the tree earlier this year in January from Cedar Rose. The fat base and decent taper was what drew me toward it:



I did quite a bit of chopping, root pruning, and sealing, intending to shape it into a more upright style. flowers did not last long, as we had a very wet and windy February.



I have heard prunus incisa is a slower-growing species, but it seemed to settle into virginia's spring climate quite readily. in 2 months, the tree had thrown out dozens of tender new shoots.



given how vigorously it grew even post-repotting, I decided I could get a little aggressive. I took off more than half of the foliage and finished an ugly wiring job:



and the tree responded with more growth.



color me shocked at how vigorous this is - more so than some of my tridents and elms. anyhow, one last pruning which revealed a styling preference toward one side. I think the new silhouette complements the trunk quite nicely and injects some attitude in. a few small wires applied with every cut sealed:



this tree has undergone a lot in 6 months. it will rest for the remainder of the season.

 

[leatherback]

Nice one.

I am finding the same. These can GROW.
I had mine in too small a container initially and in full sun. Growing poorly.
Now that the container is a little bigger, and in half-sun -sheltered from peak afternoon sun- it pushes 3 flushes a year, easily putting on 30cm/1ft in a season if left to grow..

 

[WEI]

that's the exact same setup I have. I overpotted a bit and the tree gets morning sun only and dappled afternoon shade. makes you wonder how many other "niche" species have bad reputations if most who have them grow them in unsuitable conditions

 

[leatherback]

other "niche" species

Hm.. Not sure which you would be referring to?

grow them in unsuitable conditions

I think MANY people have trees growing in the wrong conditions, certainly when people have just been at it for a few years.