Hornbeams on my property - do I work with them in the ground first?

[Nmcnerney]

I have some nice small amd medium Hornbeams on my property. Is it best to begin work with them while they are still in the ground, or should I dig them up before working with them?

 

[jk_lewis]

You give us no hint where you live so we don't know which hornbeam, but assuming American hornbeam, dig first, wait a year (or, better two) than then start styling. They can be tough to dig if they are any size. They grow slowly so if you dig small ones it may be many years before they're bonsaiable.

 

[Nmcnerney]

Thanks. I live in Virginia.

 

[Stan Kengai]

What do you mean by work with them in the ground? If you want to trunk chop and build a new leader, then leaving them in the ground is the best option. Just make sure to clear any surrounding underbrush that would shade out the chopped tree, and fertilize them. If you're satisfied with the trunk size and shape and are looking to build branches, you should dig them.