Any tips for growing a golden chain tree?

Question

The original main trunk had branches that grew out a few feet, then stopped for a few years. The ends looked like they were frozen or "burned," and it stopped blooming a few years ago. We cut it down this year and let one of the side shoots grow up in its place – it doubled the original tree height in just one year.

Any suggestions for improving the growth and shape (pruning, etc.)?

Answer 1

Lord, I remember the one I had espaliered on the blue west wall of my old house -- gorgeous!! I loved that thing.

From iVillage GardenWeb:

"Q: Hi, I've had a golden chain tree (Laburnum anagyroides (Laburnum x watereri)for about 6-7 years now. It is in full sun and over 6' tall yet it has never bloomed. Does anyone have any advice on how to help it?
I also just purchsed 2 Dapple Willow shrubs and would like any information you can offer about the care, pruning, propigation etc. I managed to get them planted before being hit with yet another major thunder storm...at least I know they are watered well!
A: When are you trimming it? It blooms on the previous years growth so trimming at the wrong time would result in no flowers. Also it will not tolerate standing water and may suffer chlorosis in alkaline soils. Finally, you are at the low end of its zonal requirements although it should still get some flowers. "

Check the soil preferences and pH requirements at the 2nd link. That odd growth spurt, etc. may have been because of this being a grafted cultivar of the tree where the graft died off. You may now have cut back to the original root stock -- who knows what will bloom if/when it does. Hope it looks good!! Good luck!