Thanks for the reply!
I did this work very recently. The people that hosted us have done similar work this time of the year with Black Pines in the same area and things turned out fine. As usual time will tell...
I also have the same concern as you regarding the branches and apex. Apparently...
I had the privilege to choose from several beautiful Mikawa Black Pines that have been grown for about 10 years in the ground and are about 12 years old. This was my first time doing anything like this and I struck gold! (at least I think I did).
This is also my first post here so I apologize...