2016 September Cedar Demonstration

September 28, 2016 BSV

For the September Meeting, Chris Xepapas, a visiting tutor from Tasmania, conducted a re-styling demonstration on a well established Cedrus deodora. Many BSV members were in attendance to hear and observe a very entertaining and informative presentation as Chris guided us through the re-styling process. Along the way, Chris shared many stories about working in the industry and provided much information about growing cedars and many other species. The photos below show the tree before any adjustments with Chris considering his options and reviewing these with the audience.

Before view of the tree.

In considering the re-style, Chris identified two major problems that he needed to rectify - a first branch thicker than the trunk and no taper in the trunk. By moving to a semi-cascade style, Chris was able to have the trunk and first branch form a tapered trunk line. See adjusted planting angle below. Before committing to this change, Chris made sure there were no major root issues on the higher side of the trunk and then proceeded to restyle the tree.

Re-aligned to semi-cascade.

This cedar is about 15 years old and Chris outlined several aspects to be mindful of during the re-style.

Branches can snap easily so be careful
Back budding can be encouraged if you let the shoots extend to improve sap flow before trimming back
Raffia was used on the major branch prior to wiring and bending.
Encouraged "pairing" wiring to improve anchorage options.
Prefers to delay cutting branches until after wiring to avoid mistakes
Generally work from the bottom up to style.
When wiring, crossing rails can be okay but don't cross wires.
Important to get the first branch right and the apex right. This can make the rest easier.
First branch, tree movement and apex should all go the same way.
With cedars, always prune back to a bud.
Use pliers to bend the wire to get branch movement.
Cedar branches can take a long time to set.