Catpaworchids said:
Regardless of what it is, I don't think you can make it to grow 'more tree like'.
I must not read well as I've read that question 3 times and it never says 'more tree like'.
MLK43611 said:
Q: During or after winter dormancy, should I selectively reduce the number of suckers (low or high?), cut off the remaining old stuff, other? I'd like to direct its "energy" stores to where it's most useful.
I'm not sure what kind of plant that is either - I would define it as either a scrub or multi-stemmed tree but that's just playing at semantics.
Do remove the dead stuff, its not adding to overall health, just making it ugly. I wouldn't remove anything alive this time of year because you don't want to encourage growth this late in the fall. Next spring after it leafs out, prune selectively to give it the appearance you want it to have. Be aware though that you have not reduced the size of the root system and as Nick pointed out, you won't change the growth habit of this plant. Pruning will encourage more growth and more suckers.
My only other suggestion would be that you post your photos in the Plant ID forum and find out what it is so you can care for it and prune properly. You can request this question be moved to Plant ID so as not to lose what's already been said.
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