My willow oak has two leaders which start at about 3 feet. Should I prune it to one leader or can I leave it alone?
Tree is about 15 feet tall and is beautiful.
Answer
The problem with two leaders at that height is it creates a weak joint and could cause the trunks to split and virtually destroy the tree. However, oaks are tough trees! But given the height of the tree, perhaps you could place a brace from one trunk to the other, drilling a hole through each trunk and putting a large bolt with a back plate on each outer side of the trunks and bolt them together. Or you could cut off one trunk just at the V at an angle, and hopefullly it will heal itself over time. Do not apply any wound paint, etc. It has been proven that this actually inhibits the healing process. Best wishes with your tree.