Tipping small sugar apple?

[dross99_si]

You guys were a big help with my recent Atemoya post so now let’s talk about this sugar apple we got. How long should I let these branches get before tipping? What do you suggest I do to start shaping it properly?
Thanks!

[Seanny]

Good looking tree.
I won't touch it until after next frost.

[pineislander]

Since you are Zone 9b Florida you have plenty of time to prune back now. The grower should have done the tip/defoliate leaves a long time ago, if for no other reason to save space. I have a few seedlings growing and after one foot of growth began tipping every six inches. If you can keep it in active growth with plenty of light, fertility and water you might get several tippings before dormancy in December/January. Once it breaks dormancy in spring you can start again. Since you said you'll keep in a pot you could protect it from any frost you may get.

[dross99_si]

Tipping done. Staked the top 2 branches upright as well . Thank you!