Managing a Forked Emerald Cedar: To Prune or Not to Prune

Dealing with a Double-Leader Cedar

An emerald cedar has developed two main peaks—a forked trunk. This is a genetic trait. If the tree is young, you can remove one fork, allowing the other to become the dominant leader. The tree will look lopsided for a couple of years but will eventually fill out. Alternatively, you can leave both leaders; the tree will remain healthy with a double-topped form.

Key Points

• Forking is genetic, not a disease.
• Early correction (while young) yields a single-trunk form.
• Leaving both leaders is perfectly acceptable.

Choose the look you prefer; either way, the cedar will thrive.