And subtropix makes my point - but without any learning curve in seeing what might (or might not) happen by making the attempt to brace/splint/cast/hogtie the split branches.
I could go on another epistle here, but...it's snowing, looks beautiful out off the deck, and my bride is preparing a batch of Lamb Chops to pair with a very nice bottle we've been waiting to taste for eight years.
During the era when I managed horticultural staff on central Kentucky thoroughbred horse farms (two of which are now APGA recognized arboreta), I would have new staff learn how to operate all woody plant cutting instruments (knives, pruners, pruning saws, chainsaws, etc.) on DEAD PLANTS, or plants that were soon to be removed. Invasive species were common victims, er, specimens upon which to practice.
Once a person demonstrated competency and judgment in using these very important implements, they could then move up to working on living permanent members of the farm's landscape.
You can always cut off more, but you cannot put it back.
