So this Fire Dragon Shantung maple I purchased form Sooner Plantfarm has 2 branches that are crossing over another branch. Unfortunately, one of these crossing branches has turned into a "leader" and is the tallest limb on this tree. I really don't want to cut it? This was originally pruned into a "lollypop" shape by the nursery. It has grown over 4ft since Spring. It has sort of grown out of the lollypop form, but due to the very poor pruning by the nursery, several limbs are misshapen. I need to get a better look at it tomorrow.
@vbx good morning A, you have a quandary there as atm both branches look healthy. But IMO that will not last, rubbing will weaken both and possibly allow disease to get into the tree, so it is time to make the decision on which one to remove. It is all down to aesthetics and what branch you would prefer to stay. But looking at your photos you appear to have more than one crossing branch. So for the sake of the future health of your tree some pruning needs to happen. It will look a bit unsightly for a couple of seasons, but will be better off for the surgery. Sorry I don't have any better news for you A.
@vbx, that's what I would do A. Sad I know, but your Fire Dragon will be the better for it in the coming years.
I drew exactly the same lines on the photo but couldn't get it to copy and save. The downward growing branch on the left should probably go too.
