So I am just starting my quest into this hobby I have always wanted to start. So far I have planted seeds to start my own, and have a couple Norfolk Island Pine already 12-18" to try my hand at first. I have read mixed reviews about wire training a N.I.P, anyone done it, does it work? Or should I just stick to a formal-upright look of the tree? My plan is simply to buy pots for them, the correct substrate, repot them, and then after they are established in the pots begin pruning them.

ALSO I would appreciate ANY and ALL tips/tricks/and resources into this hobby. I want to possibly go looking for a local tree sapling that is local to Central-PA to have also, winter is a good time to look since brush isn't overgrown. Thanks for info!