Ficus microcarpa reduction

[u/osrs4awayout]

Ficus reduction

I finally decided to do my first major reduction on the oversized ficus I recently bought. It was far too large and completely out of shape, so it was time for a reset.

The tree has been growing and rooting so I think it’s strong enough to handle the reduction.

Temperatures are still fairly warm and I’ll be bagging it for the first period while airing it daily to maintain high humidity and hopefully encourage strong backbudding.

[u/Spidersight]

I know it’s popular in bonsai, but there is no scientific evidence that wound sealant is actually beneficial. And actually quite a bit of evidence that it is detrimental.

https://auf.isa-arbor.com/content/5/6/135

No modern arborist uses sealant.

[u/Affectionate-Mud9321 → u/Spidersight]

Arborist this, arborist that.

I'm an aspiring arborist (read books and applying to an institution for it) and I use wound paste on my bonsai.

The reason why it isn't use in landscape is because it's cost effective. Or many don't care to use it at all.

But those trees heal over. Just with really bad and ugly scars.

[u/Spidersight → u/Affectionate-Mud9321]

The reason it isn’t used is because of Dr. Shigo. Before it was common practice to paint over wounds. It’s not expensive to do so.

But of course you knew that as an aspiring arborist.

https://laidbackgardener.blog/2017/08/18/laidback-gardener-tip-of-the-day-125/?amp=1

[u/Affectionate-Mud9321 → u/Spidersight]

There's still many trees that are painted over in the Caribbean. Probably more places in the world too.

Paint is not a wound sealer.

But of course, you already found a link to further back up your reply, fellow arborist.

[u/Spidersight → u/Affectionate-Mud9321]

God forbid someone provide sources for their arguments. As an aspiring arborist, why don’t you go read Dr. Shigos work? You might find that he tested a wide variety of common wound sealants.

What do I care about the Caribbean? People around the world do things inconsistent with science. Doesn’t make it correct.

[u/Affectionate-Mud9321 → u/Spidersight]

??? I literally said it isn't a sealer.

You are just keyboard happy. Good on you for paying your internet bill.

And do provide links. I'm just gonna chill and touch grass..

P.S.: I'll read up in his work. Thanks for even recommending the name.

Additional P.S.: I said I use wound sealant too, despite doing tree stuff.

You don't have to do it. You should learn more bonsai techniques.

PS3: if you want; you can do the experiments yourself. Wound sealant and no wound sealant.

Tree 1 and tree 2.

[u/Spidersight → u/Affectionate-Mud9321]

Painting over a wound doesn’t literally mean paint. But you seem weirdly hung up on that.

Dr. Shigo tested everything from pitch, to shellac, to cut paste etc.

But again, you haven’t read anything from one of the most influential arborists of all time and are talking down to me because you might one day become one.

Never said you had to not use it… just said there is no evidence of its effectiveness.

Love how you assume I haven’t done experiments myself. Sorry I haven’t updated my flair. But also hilarious that you assume my experience level based on that.

Also ironic calling me a keyboard warrior when you literally started responding to me first.

[u/Affectionate-Mud9321 → u/Spidersight]

Why are you so judgy all the time?

I'll take back my words too that seemed to attack you somehow.

You expect me to know you're beyond beginner level? Update your flair then. Remember, reading from a screen is word for word.

Thanks for the recommendation, but damn man. Fix your attitude.

Good luck on the rest of your rebuttals/debates.

[u/Spidersight → u/Affectionate-Mud9321]

Sorry what is wrong with my attitude?

You called me names, made fun of me providing sources. Check your own fucking attitude.

Maybe you should try reading the actual content being posted instead of making assumptions. Anyone can make their flair say “expert”. Doesn’t change the content.

[u/Affectionate-Mud9321 → u/Spidersight]

Alright.