Learn when, why, and how to prune a Japanese maple to keep your tree healthy and beautiful.
Pruning at this time reduces the risk of subjecting the tree to stress or disease.
Avoid major pruning in the late spring and summer during its active growth period.
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The new growth is more susceptible to extreme weather and pest damage.
Fall is theworst time to prune treesas it makes them more vulnerable to frost damage.
it’s possible for you to also remove dead, diseased, or damaged wood throughout the year.
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When removing any deadwood, cut just above the branch collar.
This is the line where the branch joins an old branch or the tree’s main trunk.
Use sterile, sharp tools to make your cuts.
Disinfecting the tools before and after use reduces the risk of spreading disease.
The goal is to create overlapping layers of non-touching branches that allow you to see between the leaf layers.
Cut the branches back to a lateral bud or branch rather than in the middle.
It’s best to cut overlapping branches at the base nearest the trunk to prevent future crossing.
Work your way up from the bottom of the tree, tackling the inside limbs first.
Aim for a balanced appearance that thins out crowded canopy areas and allows light to reach the inner branches.
The key is to keep the trimming light to avoid stressing your tree.
Remove Problematic Buds
Its worth monitoring late spring and summer bud formation.
The ideal shape for a Japanese maple depends on whether it is an upright or fanning weeping bang out.
