Trident with short/zero internode length...can I chop it?

[Horophyle]

Hello All,

I have had this trident for a little over a year now. I noticed this problem when I originally purchased it but wanted to let the plant get established in my area before making any drastic repairs. It had some very long shoots at the end of last summer and seems to be coming out of winter very well, so I think it's ready.

There are a few places on the tree usually on branch termination points where all the growth is coming out of one location. Kind of hard to describe so check out the pictures.

What is the best way to remedy this. Can I cut the entire "clump" of growth off (making the cut directly behind the problem area) and start fresh or is there less intrusive pruning technique I can use in these trouble spots to remedy.

She's planted in good substrate and is on the same feeding regiment as the rest of my trees. Appears very healthy......other than this

Thanks for the suggestions, I really look forward to remedying this and building some ramification.

-K

 

[thumblessprimate1]

Looks weak. I wouldn't do the chop.

 

[Horophyle]

Thanks for the advice. To clarify, this is only happening in 3/4 places on the tree. Everywhere else is growing vigorously and with good internode distances.

 

[Smoke]

We would have no idea about that since there is no picture of the whole tree. What you wish to cut off looks like pruning to me, not a chop. I also, based on pics do not see a weak tree, at least the parts of it in what pics there are

 

[Horophyle]

Thanks Smoke, that is helpful. Here is the most recent photo I have showing more of the tree....Can post another this evening if needed. The tree needs a lot of work and now that it's acclimated I am excited to get started.

We had a brutal winter here in central Oregon and it is lingering. We have only had 4-5 days above 70 so far this year so I am somewhat impressed with the growth it is pushing. A few of my Cypress haven't even popped their buds yet...but man they are close!