which is the best way to induce the thickest trunks? Either let a tiny tree
grow up as tall as it can, or cut it down at the top when its about 30 cm
( 1 foot ) or similar high ? thanks.

jw 1111 Wrote:
> which is the best way to induce the thickest trunks? Either let a tiny
> tree
> grow up as tall as it can, or cut it down at the top when its about 30
> cm
> ( 1 foot ) or similar high ? thanks.

Hi JW,
Firstly, it depends on the type of tree. Some trees especially if they
are grown from cuttings almost never grow thick trunks.
Growing up as tall as possible then cutting it down will certainly help
the trunk to thicken but then you have the problem of what to do from
where the cut is. Usual is to cut just above a branch and then train
this up as the new leader/apex, but this can cause a bend in the trunk
where the branch grows from. If the new leader is then allowed to grow
for a season or two and then this is cut down and a new leader selected
you end up with a nice taper on the trunk. If you do the initial cut say
at an angle from right to left, then do the next cut at an angle from
left to right - this will even up the trunk somewhat and can be done as
many times as you want - each time cutting from a different side of the
trunk.
Another way is to let some 'sacrificial' branches grow totally wild for
a season or two - or for as long as you can. This will thicken the trunk
considerably below the branch/branches. When the trunk is as thick as
you want it, these sacrificial branches are then removed.
Another way if the pot is large enough or is a training pot ie: black
plastic or styrene box - and especially with figs is to cut all the
downward pointing roots off, and then put a 'plate' under the tree,
spread all the sideways pointing roots evenly over it, wire or tie the
roots in place then bury it. The plate can be anything that won't rot
or break up very easy. If the trunk is only relatively thin an old CD
is ideal, or a piece of fibro/cement sheet. I wouldn't use treated
timber of any sort - they contain pretty toxic chemicals and can do
considerable damage to the tree if it absorbs any of them. Hope this is
of some help to you
TinanaTaffy


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TinanaTaffy