Trident Feedback Please

Here is a trident maple (Acer buergeranum) I obtained from a bonsai 'tree farm', growing in the ground Spring, 2007. I chopped it when I first planted it, in a cut down 3 gallon container. I planted it in a mica pot this week. I would like some ideas about whether I should again chop it and where: the green line or the red. I put some virtual 'branches' in red if I only chop the top inch or so. The diameter is about 1.5 inches (4 cm) at the soil line. Thanks for you help!

You need taper and movement, so I personally would chop at the lowest point then train a shoot back to the left, repeat and train to right, repeat......

Or you could air layer it at that point. They are easy to root and soon it will be the right time. I usually airlayer after the first flush of leaves has hardened off in late spring. The big bonus is that the air layered section will have a really good radial root spread that can be developed into an excellent nebari.

Have you examined the base of the tree carefully to see which has the best front in terms of nebari development? That may offer other ideas for chopping or layering.

Will, I thought that was the case, but I still haven't learned true patience.
John, the current 'front' is the best nebari. When I re-potted, these roots were under the surface with small immature roots above.
Kev, would air layering stress the tree too much since I just repotted it?
Thanks for the advice.

With most other trees it may be a bit risky but Tridents are so vigorous it should be OK. Take your cue from the tree. I'd say if you have wired it into the pot and you leave it for a few weeks after the leaves have opened, the roots will be active. If it is growing healthily and appears vigorous, go for it. If you have any doubts, leave it 'till next year.

Thanks Kev. I'll check it's growth/health after the leaves open.