Tree's vertical growth (Coral Bark Japanese Maple)

handy man88

I have a 4' high coral bark japanese maple and the base (grey part) of the tree is vertical for about 2", but then the main trunk takes a slight angle. Should I dig this small tree out and replant to make the trunk look more vertical, or should I leave it alone as this is normal?

The main trunk does take an angle, but there is a 2nd branch on this main trunk that goes in the opposite direction which makes the tree look it could be a Y. The main trunk has most of the branches.

hortman

Hey, handy man88. Ken here with The Home Depot in the Chicago area.
You have one of the great looking Japanese Maples there. The branching
pattern you describe is normal for your maple. As a young tree it will have
that “gangly “ look. In maturity it will have a nice domed look like the picture
in this link. Take care.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acer_palmatum
Learn more at,

GardenConcepts

A tree that small would be easy to shift to straight. If it were mine, I would use a sharp spade and cut around the root ball, about 15" off the trunk, angling the cut to form a 'V'. From there you should be able to straighten the tree without removing it from the hole by using the spade. Additionally, you could use stakes and wire with garden hose to help straighten any wayward branches- just do a little at a time. If you try to bend a branch completely to straight all at once you may break the branch.

__________________
Chris

To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.


To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

handy man88

Thanks. I actually bought this tree from HD when it was only 1.5' high and cost $12!

handy man88

Something to consider with the staking idea. Thanks.