To trim or not to trim Sapodilla Hasya

[Samu]

After reading some commentaries from forum members here, few days ago I got myself a couple of
plants, one of them is 15 gallon Sapodilla Hasya. For some reason, I picked the seemingly "vigorous"
 one, which also has a few small flower buds developing in one branch.
After observing and contemplating of where to plant it for a couple of days, I think I need to do something
with that one middle branch that soaring out high by itself; almost 4 feet above the rest.
(Total plant height = 9 ft 3 inches)

My understanding is, in order to encourage developing more lateral branches, I need to trim this branch
to about even level with the rest of them. Am I correct in this assumption?
If so, when is the better timing to do it? Now, while it's still in the pot at this time of the year, or later, after
it has been in the ground for a while?

Thanks for any advice you can contribute.

[Tropicalgrower89]

I would cut the long vertical growth where it begins to veer towards the right.  Also, remove the supporting stick that is right up against the trunk and stick in about four supporting sticks around the outer edge where the dirt sits against the pot.  Add some sort of soft strapping and tie the trunk to the 4 sticks.  That way the tree will get support from all four points.  Leave a bit of slack to allow the tree trunk to sway a bit to promote trunk strength and growth width-wise.

[Samu]

Alexi,
Thanks for your valuable advice; I will definitely cut that middle branch.
I guess there is no issue when to cut it right? (before or after planted in
the ground).

"Leave a bit of slack to allow the tree trunk to sway a bit to promote trunk strength and growth width-wise".
This is something I never knew before; this is what that tree needs the most correction, I think.
Really appreciate you sharing the knowledge!

[Tropicalgrower89]

You're welcome Sam.    I think it would be better to trim it during spring or summer when the weather is warmer and the tree begins to go through an active growth-phase again. Not sure though. I'll wait until other members post their advice if I were you.