Trunk chop in summer?

[Mdpap1974]

Hi,

I have a large potted shishigashira. Sadly, I am moving to a townhouse with limited outdoor space which I don’t think will accommodate the tree. I am considering putting the tree up for sale or maybe gifting it to a friend, but in the back of my mind I really want to keep it in some form. So, I was thinking of air layering as many branches as possible, and then doing a massive chop to develop the main trunk as a bonsai. The problem is my timeline. I will be moving at the end of June. Question: Will the tree survive a massive cut-back in summer?

 

[NOZZLE HEAD]

If you leave an active branch on the tree it will remove nearly all the risk of losing the tree.

It looks like a grafted specimen, so be aware that any new growth coming from below the graft Union will not be shishigashira.

 

[River's Edge]

I am considering putting the tree up for sale or maybe gifting it to a friend

Both good ideas for this particular tree and timing!

 

[leatherback]

You can asbolutely chop back at that time.

Layering might work but it might be too short to get any decent roots

 

[Hack Yeah!]

Where do you live? Give it to a friend who will let you air layer off your desired branch while residing with them

 

[Mdpap1974]

Thanks for the comments and advice. I think based on the lack of potential and welfare of the tree, I’m going to find a new home for it.