Grafting Loropetalum

Rule Breaking Loropetalum

Here's a pretty nice little rule breaker that wants to be greater. I've been developing this little loropetalum for a few years now. The problem is there is just one limb on this tree! The "second" limb (on the right) is really where the first limb cuts right back across the trunk line! I know, big no-no, but I think it's easy to see the potential here.

My first idea is to pull the switchback in toward the trunk knuckle and perform an approach graft. I also have a couple of whips that sprung up from the ground where I dug it up this past spring (I could do a thread graft). The problem is, I don't know too much about grafting loropetalum. The skin is awful thin. Has anyone had experience grafting loropetalum? Or, perhaps I should let it be a rebel and keep it as it is(?) Opinions?

Thanks!

Consider removing the lower branch completely...

Brian Van Fleet said:

Consider removing the lower branch completely...

Click to expand...

Interesting...you know I hadn't even considered. Something to dwell on because it's quite a commitment.

Here ......

I'm with Brian on this. A fall or spring pruning to bring it in scale will be a nice deciduous style.

Sort of takes on the look of a dogwood with the zaggy trunk and the canopy. It's certainly easy and less risky than a graft that goes badly. Thanks for the nice graphical representation!

A third.

Thats the first thing I thought too.

That upper canopy is perfect.

Enough interest in the trunk, a decent base, nice ramification in the crown.

Cut that thing!

Sorce

Thought I'd give an update to this: I followed the advice from Brian and (as predicted) it turned out to be good advice. After removing the limb it was apparent that it would never completely heal so I decided to make it a hollow. Being directly on the front of the tree, I think it adds a bit of character. It's in full bloom now so I thought I'd upload a pic.

Looks nice FF!

Thanks Brian. Good advice!