Q:We have recently had new cryptomerias planted. One of the trees has two trunks and we have been told we should cut the smaller one off. Should we cut it or leave it?

A: Because the trunks are leaning outward I think it’s likely the trees will eventually break apart in opposite directions.

But you don’t have to remove the smaller one completely. Simply reach as high up as you can with pruning loppers and clip out the top of the smaller one. This will prevent it from growing much taller. The form of the tree will be a bit odd for a couple of years but I don’t think you’ll notice a thing in five years.