Help/advice for styling a ponderosa pine

I would be happy to come to an event and help you with your pine! Just let me know when and where.

Thanks Mike. Yes, I collected it 4 years ago. I'm going to let the repot guide the next steps. I originally thought the best front was photo #1 as well - lots of character from that perspective.

After looking at it again, I still like option 1 best and then make it into a semi-cascade with the tree moving over to the right in photo #1. Photo #2 shows a lot of branches which looks like this would be very possible. In photo #2 the large branch moving off to the right looks like it could be used for the apex of the semi-cascade. The mass of upper foliage in photo #2 might be able to be brought down as a back branch on the tree. It is hard to tell from the photo's. Good tree, actually great tree. Did you collect it?

Thanks Mike. I'm really puzzled on this one. I see merits in both. If we ever get back to Wed. morning work sessions at DBG or Chatfield, I'll bring this tree in and get everyone's take; you'll have the benefit of seeing it in person (hard to tell for sure in 2D images).

My plan is to repot first (a challenge in itself because there is a large root (1.5+ in diameter) moving right that reaches nearly to the end of the box).

Option 1 is best for me. Develop apex on the long lower branch(s) on the left. Plenty of branches to use. Use upper branch as a back branch and lower it behind the tree. Option one has the tree moving forward, option two has the tree moving away.

Thanks Dan. I agree with you that front #2 is likely better. I think I can move the foliage towards the front but it will be a challenge since several of the main branches are more than an inch thick. I may bring this tree to a workshop next year to get help.

Not much help... but, I like your options! Great tree!! I can see the merits of both.

I would say that number two looks like a much stronger tree, but how hard would it be to bring the foliage forward if you choose that front?