Leaning kousa tree - help!

[Smousie]

I recently purchased a cornus kousa tree by mail order. The tree they sent leans significantly to one side. The nursery has refused to exchange or refund so I will have to make the best of it.

It's a multi stem tree. The short trunk leans to one side. If planted upright the whole tree will lean strongly. Can anyone please suggest how to prune and stake this tree to form a vase shape with the branches on the correct side! Thanks.

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[Toronado3800]

Plant it at a slight angle leaning towards more upright. Then after a year come back and start pruning with a minimalistic hand. The tree may guide you by then.

 

[Del_]

That Kousa is some really second rate nursery stock.

I think you've been cheated.

Send them some photos and try to get your money back.

 

[DR. P. Proteus]

That Kousa is some really second rate nursery stock.

I think you've been cheated.

Send them some photos and try to get your money back.

Second rate? yer two kind!