sapling - Albizia julibrissin

[RFbonsaiguy]

Hello - This is my first attempt at growing a tree. The mimosa is about 9 mos old and thriving. I life in Chicago and keep the tree inside on the window sill. I'd love some advice on what to do next. The tree cannot stand on its own right now, so I lean it against the window. Please let me know what to do! (when to trim or wire, etc)

 

[nuttiest]

Maybe put it outside so it can get breezes that will strengthen the upper roots. If that is not an option you could cut it now to the point it can stand up.

 

[Kievnstavick]

The reason it is unable to stand up on its own is a sign that it is not getting enough light. We in the plant community call this "leggy." It is not a good condition.

The sapling is devoting energy into getting taller instead other areas of development. It is seeking more light. A well-lit window is darker then a spot outside that is fully shaded.

This needs to go outside, but you need to transition it to full-strength sunlight. I would also stake the tree to support it upright (if that is your intended design). I wouldn't risk cutting it as this plant's energy reserves are probably pretty low already.

 

[RFbonsaiguy]

Thank you - I relocated the tree to the outside where it can catch a breeze and more sunshine. I'm wondering if it would make sense to trim the top?

 

[ajm55555]

If you want to give it a shape, think of one and cut.
If you want to thicken the trunk, let it grow as long as possible. You can cut at the end of the growing season.
If it risks tipping over, cut the top.
This is mine from from May to mid July. The original top is gone because it was too heavy.

 

[dbonsaiw]

I'm wondering if it would make sense to trim the top?

I have a similar issue with a vachelia caven and have staked the tree so that it can stand and I dont have to cut it just yet.

 

[RFbonsaiguy]

Solid - this is welcome advice and much appreciated. Thank you!

 

[RFbonsaiguy]

Well that backfired... a bloody rabbit chewed up my tree. Is this salvageable???

 

[Kievnstavick]

The rabbit just wanted to help style the sapling

It still has some leaves. Even so, the trunk is still green so it can perform some photosynthesis.

It is just a waiting game now to see if the tree has enough energy to heal the wounded areas and then continue growing.

 

[ajm55555]

Is this salvageable???

Of course it is.