time????

give it time.. a year or two ...

see how it reacts ...

but it all depends on your personality type ...

if its going to bug the heck out of you.. be done with it now ...

if you are the 'i enjoy and experiment' type... then watch it ...

we would need a pic for any real advice as to what we would do with it ...

i suppose it also depends if its out in the back 3 acres... or right next to your adult libation chair on the patio ... lol ...

ken

ps: move chair to good side... lol ...

Hi Ken,
Thanks for the response. When I figure out how to upload my photo, I'll post it. Suffice it to say the trunk is completely visible on a large portion of the right side of the tree while the left is full and beautiful. I think it's a goner if what I'm reading is correct--that pruning back will not foster new, fuller growth near the trunk. By the way, the small tree is smack dab in front of my garage--an essential element of my foundation landscape and was one of my favorites. For all these years the deer have ignored it, giving me a false sense of security. I truly appreciate your reply. Maybe I'll try closing my eyes as I back down my driveway.