So I just bought this Ap Chantilly Lace, and we've tried to stake it up. However, the very top of the tree (about the top 3") is severely bent as shown in the photo. The overall size of the tree is about 14" and is around 18 months old. I was thinking of pruning off just above the large node where the severe bend is. Is that an acceptable thing to do? Will cutting that much off hurt it? I'd like to continue to stake it up, but I don't see how it could be done currently. Thanks!
While I think the tree would survive, it may take some time regain that growth. Looks like a nice little multigrowth segment. two suggestions: 1) I think it could be gently be staked upwards. It probably won't grow straight - but hey that little "s -curve" could be a nice little feature as the tree matures. 2) Just let it grow as is - nature seems to have a way of sorting these things out -it'll find its direction. Good luck and keep us updated
I would not cut it, and wait until next year for the plant may naturally prove itself to develop its shape, unless it has a viral infection/systemic condition?
OK, I'll let it go. Maybe I can stake up that longer branch that is already growing more upright. I just hope the tree puts energy into growing that one.
It seems like your goal is to get more height from the tree rather than being offended by the shape, yes? Something I've done in the past is to make a "splint" rather than just a stake. You take a small piece of bamboo and loosely attach it above and below the bend. Then attach in the middle. Just keep working with different pieces of bamboo and different attachment points until you take some of the bend out of it. Also, after you've got the bend mitigated (it won't be completely gone, just better) then you can attach the new bamboo to your current stake.
