Of all the trees we grow for bonsai, Trident maple is probably the most responsive to any technique used to grow them. I love these fused trunk trees for making incredible bases. The very nature of callus on most trees causes visual disconnect because we just don't like "scar tissue". Trident have the amazing ability to blend the callus and "disappear"  into what looks like an aged trunk only achieved through time.

Trees at this stage of development are ready to begin their bonsai journey. There has been no bonsai technique used in getting it here, only growing technique. The most regurgitated pieces of information in bonsai is applying finishing technique when growing technique is needed.