Literally, a key, useful branch. It refers to a branch that is necessary to make up a tree’s feature. It is to shape up the form of a tree and give elegance and momentum. The ”yakueda” branch is not necessarily the main branch of a tree. It sometimes helps the main or other branches stand out. Not only the ”ichinoeda” No. 1 branch but the ”sashieda” pointing branch or ”kuitsukieda” complementary branches can serve as ”yakueda.” Growers need to designate the ”yakueda” branch in the course of cultivation of a young tree, make clear each branch’s role, and to shape up the tree.

translated by Kyodo News