Twin Trunk Japanese Maple

[Tidal Bonsai]

A while ago, I was helping @MACH5 while his trees were still dormant. Surrounded by amazing trees, one in particular caught my eye… Not only was this medium size Japanese maple a spectacular specimen, but it was potted in an equally spectacular Koyo pot!

When he decided to list it for sale in May, I jumped at the opportunity.

 

[Tidal Bonsai]

When the tree came to me, he had applied two root grafts, and one thread graft that had not taken yet. I had the task of letting the apex and all three grafts run while the rest of the tree was held back to begin ramification. Thanks to all the time I spent “paying my dues” working with Sergio, I was up for the task!

 

[Tidal Bonsai]

This tree had a great growing season! I was able to separate the thread graft, and one of the two root grafts. The shot below is in the summer after partial defoliation.

 

[Tidal Bonsai]

Now that it has dropped its leaves, I brought it back to Sergio for us to both take a look at it.


A few hours ago, we cut it back and 90% of the tree is ready for refinement next season. Sergio liked my proposed front adjustment from his original vision. In my opinion, the angle change tightens up the right side, opens up the left, and makes the apex look more elegant.


All she needs now is a nap, and some late winter wiring before next growing season.

 

[Mike Westervelt]

Looking good! what is your plan for the knob/reverse taper at the apex junction?

Your proposed new rotation angle helps but it's still pretty obvious.

 

[Tidal Bonsai]

Looking good! what is your plan for the knob/reverse taper at the apex junction?

Your proposed new rotation angle helps but it's still pretty obvious.

It doesn’t bother me. Late winter wiring will make that area look less congested.

 

[Shogun610]

Nice maple , props to you for carrying it forward

 

[misfit11]

What a fantastic tree. Congratulations on getting it from Sergio. I really like the new chosen front. It seems more dynamic and less flat. I'm looking forward to seeing where you take this going forward. Nice work!

 

[jeremy_norbury]

Lovely

 

[leatherback]

nice one!