Your plant is moving (growing) to the left, so that small branch (trunk wannabe) adds visual weight/balance to the tree. You can remove it entirely or just one side of the bifurcation. A bifurcation is when a branch splits into 2 branches, like a slingshot. If you do remove it entirely, you should prune the main part of the tree back so the trunk is moving back toward an imaginary vertical line from where the main trunk exits the soil.

I can't tell from the images provided, but it looks like you have competing (co-dominant) leaders on the main part of the tree. A two-headed tree confuses the eye because one typically views a tree by looking at the lower trunk and following the trunkline upward to the apex (tip top). You should decide asap, whether or not you want a single-trunk specimen or a bushy/shrubby tree with multiple trunks. In either case, pruning is the appropriate strategy to achieve either outcome.

You could also remove one of the competing stems on the left side of the tree, and the side with the zigzag would bake a good candidate. That would allow you to create a composition where the tall side of the tree (left side) sort of leans protectively over the smaller branch/trunk wannabe moving to the right. In bonsai, this is called a Mother/Daughter style tree.

Note: When you allow your branches to get as long as they are, it forces you to cut the tree back hard in order to ensure branches and foliage close to the trunk. If you snip a few inches off the the tree, you'll only get back-budding (which creates new branches and leaves) at a few nodes immediately proximal (toward the trunk) to the pruning cut. Branches that bifurcate (divide) well away from the trunk jar the eye and potentially become a distraction.

You probably don't want to hear it, but your tree needs to be cut back hard to bring it back in bounds. This will force prolific back-budding. Keep the branches you believe contribute to the composition's eye appeal and rub off branches you don't want (with your thumb) as soon as they occur. Once you bring it back in bounds, start pinching the branches to stop them from getting too long. This will force lots of new branches and leaves.

Ask, if your interested in cutting the tree back hard, or if you need pruning guidance. For that, I will need pictures from all sides (N,S,E,W or front, back, left, right).

You should be fertilizing regularly .... like every 1-2 weeks in summer. Let me know if you need help with a nutritional supplementation program that is extremely easy and effective.

PS ~ No amount of pruning, roots OR shoots, is going to jeopardize your plant's viability, especially at this time of your. They have a huge amount of vigor (a genetic trait). I can also offer you some visual reassurance if you're undecided because you are uneasy about how it will affect the tree.

Al

tapla,

Thank you. I would love your advice on how to hard prune the tree. I will post pictures in the next day or so.