Six year progression of a Sierra juniper

PaulH

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I collected this tree in 2008 near Cisco Grove California (with a permit). Here it is shortly after collection:

newlycollectedsierra_zpsb1c88ea2.jpg
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Next step was a bonsai pot in 2010:

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After first styling with help from Ryan Neal:

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Let it grow free for the last two years:

beforewiringwithBjorn_zpse1a4970a.jpg
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After detail wiring last week in workshop with Bjorn Bjorholm and carving of small shari. After filling out this growing season it will be show ready.

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markyscott

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I really like the deadwood - it looks like a shark fin!

Scott
 

markyscott

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It's really nice to see the development of a sierra. I have one myself, although about 8 years behind yours. I really appreciate you sharing what can be done.

Scott
 

fraser67

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I love progression threads...Thanks! Great looking tree! I like the pot...simple.
 

edprocoat

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Nice, what was the large trunked thing in the background of the first pic? The trunk looked so massive it seemed like a mountain with trees growing from it. Do you still have it?

ed
 

PaulH

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Nice, what was the large trunked thing in the background of the first pic? The trunk looked so massive it seemed like a mountain with trees growing from it. Do you still have it?

ed

No, sadly, it was one of my failures, It was another Sierra.
 

Poink88

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Paul,

How about slowly reducing the right and developing the left foliage more towards this?

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Dav4

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I really love this tree. Awesome deadwood and great dynamic styling with that cascading branch. I'd love to see it in person. I'm also very impressed with how quickly the canopy developed. Great job.
 

PaulH

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Paul,

How about slowly reducing the right and developing the left foliage more towards this?

attachment.php

Just doesn't work for me Dario. Part of the interest of this tree, for me, is the flow to the right. You are correct though that it still needs a little more length on the left to balance it but I wouldnt want to change the visual direction..
 

Poink88

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Just doesn't work for me Dario. Part of the interest of this tree, for me, is the flow to the right. You are correct though that it still needs a little more length on the left to balance it but I wouldnt want to change the visual direction..

Perfect. Your taste/preference is all that matters of course.

Thank you. :)
 

Ris

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Love the progression and direction of this wish i can find one.
 

october

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Perfect. Your taste/preference is all that matters of course.

Thank you. :)

Hi Dario.. In this case, I don't think is a matter of taste. ;) Since you always say you want things straight forward, I can offer you this explanation. It would not make sense to have a lot of deadwood on one side, but have that side be the strongest side. The foliage would not be growing in the direction against the elements. Everything needs to flow in the same direction. At least that is the case with this tree.

Rob
 
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PaulH

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Update

This tree grows like a weed. Did some fine tuning yesterday in a workshop with Peter Tea.
 

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Vance Wood

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I have a question from the point of personal ignorance: Is it, or is it not possible, to form foliage pads like those seen in the Shimpaku Juniper? What is the thinking on this?
 

october

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I love this tree. From how it looked to start with until now is such a huge difference. This is a perfect example of great workmanship cooperating with the tree's natural growth. Outstanding!

Rob
 

PaulH

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I have a question from the point of personal ignorance: Is it, or is it not possible, to form foliage pads like those seen in the Shimpaku Juniper? What is the thinking on this?

They rarely get as dense as Kishu shimpaku, more delicate like itoigawa. And this sub-species is more blue in color. There are some exceptional examples though. I've got a photo on my work computer I'll put up for you tomorrow.
 

fore

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Not going to happen unless you or Dario buy the tree. :)

Hi Paul, would you mind sharing your thoughts on the flow/direction you've chosen over say Dario's suggestion? I'd love to hear your reasoning...I'm still learning and hope you don't mind me asking ;)

Chris
 

Poink88

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Hi Paul, would you mind sharing your thoughts on the flow/direction you've chosen over say Dario's suggestion? I'd love to hear your reasoning...I'm still learning and hope you don't mind me asking ;)

Chris

I know you asked Paul but if I may, I would share mine. :D

There is a very nice deadwood feature at the left and by moving the foliage in that area, I feel it diverts the focus there more. It also "frames" the deadwood. JMHO right or wrong. :)
 
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