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That should work but you will need a longer/taller splint so you can chase the new top and keep it on track as it grows. At least for the remainder of this year.

That is the plan. The #6 copper was convenient and bendable. Also, it was on hand. I will probably switch it out with bamboo later. I have also found that zip-ties, that are not pulled tight, work well for holding plants. The loop allows for movement and they are easy to remove.
 
Just noticed that you used zip ties. It would be better with soft ties like the heavy duty but stretchy green plastic tie tape. The limbs on a young tree are expanding in girth so fast that girdling happens fast.
OK. I was typing while you posted. As long as you are aware it's all good.
 
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It is time for an update to the maple tree. I planted it about 2 months ago. It is doing well up to a point, after that the top seems dead. I will post pictures next.

I think I have 3 options for this tree. Tell me what you guys think.

1. Top the tree and see how it responds.
2. Leave the dead top and see how the tree handles it on its own.
3. Remove the tree and plant a different one. It was only $5.
 
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Yeah, dead it out and see what happens. Looks like it may have cankered. Just planted a snake bark maple despite knowing their tendency to canker when stressed. What can I say, I love em anyway.
 
So far most of the respondents have focused solely above the main forks of the tree... the crown? I see this tree still small enough to reduce the main trunk by topping it and wiring up a new dominant leader. It will still form a full callous that in later years will all but be swallowed by new growth. In other words abandon the misshapen top and prune for balance. The first year should be root repair and either re potting or planting, the second year should be the major cut, the following year should be the start of canopy development. Then a year or 2 of rest.
 
That certainly applies to a tree this young, done in nurseries all over. Most responses were intended to show others the merits of reduction and small cuts rather than larger diameter ones on the main stem so as to apply this to larger trees, particularly those that are poor comparpartmentalizers and situations where heartwood would be exposed.
 
I’d leave the dead. You can use it as a stake to support and sprout to train as leader. Perhaps prune the twigs but leave the dead meat
 
Just the discolored area. Not clear enougj to make out anything. Eutypella and nectria come to mind with maple and vert is always fun.
 

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