Hello, I have this EU Hornbeam growing side branch very fast. The trunk has nice shape to be single trunk tree and I was always leaning towards that type of design. Now with this guy growing rapidly on the left I’m thinking is there another option ? Please share your thoughs 
Thank you
I don’t see it as a good double trunk since it is fairly high. However, I can envision leaving it for a year to bulk up the trunk below it.
I would definitely keep it. Change angle and cover surface roots with substrate Maybe new roots will form
I would take it now before it makes a bigger scar unless your primary goal is trunk girth
How big of a tree do you want? Im afraid you want a big tree but Im not sure this tree is favorable.
That side branch is a gift. The trunk section above it is very straight and not a good trunk movement. Even worse, there are no branches on it. I would go bold and cut all the way back to the new branch. Bend it like crazy. You’re already in a box so you will get a lot of new development. It will be a big wound but with proper technique, (paste, multiple stages of cutting so dieback doesnt kill your closest branch, reactivating the collar tissue perioridcally) you should be fine. Nothing to fear.
When I look at the whole tree, all of the upper portions look and feel like sacrificial branches, growing out and contributing to that excellent trunk girth you have at the base. But now its time to sacrifice them.
