Strengthening the apex
The styling on this Juniper (we’d be guessing on species, so we won’t) is almost done (at least for now). The exception is the sacrifice branch on the top. The artist, Mr Toshinori Suzuki, has decided to leave it on to strengthen the tree’s apex.When he is satisfied with the apex, he’ll sacrifice the branch (no ceremonial drums, just sharp shears are required).
Apical versus lateral dominance
With apically dominant trees, energy tends to flow into the apex; however, most junipers (including this one) are laterally dominant (energy flows into lower lateral branches), so sometimes a little help at the top is required.
Some uses of sacrifice branches
Sacrifice branches can be used in a number if situations. Two common and related uses are: to thicken a trunk or branch and to strengthen a section of a tree. If you look at the photo above, you can see that the apex is not as lush and well developed as most of the lower growth. Thus the need for the sacrifice branch.
How they work
Sacrifice branches work because they are allowed to grow unimpeded. This rapid free growth pulls energy into the branch or trunk that hosts the sacrifice branch. This extra energy (basically water and nutrients) results in strengthening and thickening.
The same tree: before. Can you see how Mr Suzuki got from this to the tree in the photo above. If you’re intereted in seeing some of the steps and what Suzuki has to say about them, you can check the original article in Bonsai Today issue 61.
Very helpful.