Simply trace longer branches back to a side branch and prune them out at this point.On rare occasions, you may wish to prune even smaller trees to reduce size and width. Make sure you choose a Japanese maple which is suited to the position in which you wish it to grow.īut larger maples may be pruned to make them more suitable for growth in a smaller garden. They do not respond well to extensive pruning and should always be chosen for their height and spread. Pruning For Size RestrictionĪnother reason to prune Acers is to restrict their size – slower-growing and small Japanese maples will not typically have to be pruned for this reason. However, if you are growing your maples from seed, or younger saplings or ‘maidens’ then some pruning may be required, largely on aesthetic grounds, to create a clear trunk and a well-spaced, nicely shaped canopy of branches. These will likely have already undergone a process of formative pruning to create well-shaped trees.įormative pruning is not something most gardeners will have to consider. Larger maples are typically purchased as 2-3 year old trees. The only exception to this is when maples such as field maples are being used as part of a hedgerow.įor hedgerows, maples are sometimes pruned not only during the winter, but also in late spring and sometimes also in September to keep them neat and in check. Pruning in winter after leaf fall also makes it easier for you to see the structure of your trees. “Small pruning can be done any time, but major pruning is best done from late summer to late winter before the sap starts to rise,” states Agustin. However, while winter pruning is best, you should also generally avoid pruning when temperatures are below zero. When pruned during the growing season, Acers can bleed sap from pruning cuts, which can weaken or damage the trees. For general maintenance and to preserve the ongoing health of the trees.Īcers of all types should almost always be pruned during the dormant period, between November and March.To maintain a pleasing and aesthetic shape and form.Formatively – to form their initial pleasing shape during early stages of growth.However, there are certain reasons to prune and all Acers can be lightly pruned to achieve certain results. Larger maples may also be left largely to their own devices. Small Japanese maples are usually best when left to grow naturally, and pruning should generally be kept to a minimum. “Maples do not require pruning unless you want to form the tree in a precise shape,” says Agustin Coello-Vera from The Maple Society.
#BEST TIME TO TRIM MAPLE TREES HOW TO#
Read on to learn why you might wish to prune Acers, when and how to do so. However, there are certain occasions when pruning can be desirable. Pruning excessively can often weaken the trees, and is often unnecessary. With Acers large and small it is usually best to keep pruning to a minimum but there will be some times when pruning may be required or desired.Īcers, both larger maples and small Japanese trees, often perform best when more or less left to their own devices.
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