Pruning can improve the health and aesthetics of many different plants – one of which is the Japanese maple. Their elegant, organic forms are instantly recognisable, whether weeping or upright.
However, most Japanese maples do not create these wonderful shapes. If left unattended, they can become overcrowded and slightly misshapen.
The more striking specimens have been carefully trimmed to preserve their natural shape and enhance their appearance.
Pruning this plant means bringing out the best of the Japanese maple without trying to change its overall shape, mostly tidying up rather than making significant changes.
If a branch splits or breaks, gardeners notice dying or diseased growth, or a single branch touches their home or interferes with a path, they can trim it at any time.
However, for those who want to change the shape of the plant or remove large branches, gardeners have told when is the best time to do it.
When Nikki Allen posted a photo of a Japanese maple on the Loving Your Garden Facebook page, she asked, “Hey, Does anyone know when is the best time to prune this? We’ve had it for a few years now and this year it seems to have had a growth spurt.”
According to group members, winter is the best time to prune Japanese maples to prevent the tree from leaking.
Alison Neale wrote: “Acers are prone to oozing sap, so ideally this should be done when dormant. The best time to prune them is between November and January.
Karen James said: “It’s best to cut it cold so it doesn’t lose sap and this can lead to weakening of the tree – and it shouldn’t need a lot of cutting.”
Susanna Lincoln urged: “No, don’t cut it back now! It’s growing season, so it’s best to leave it for now. Start cutting it in winter.”
Janet Lewis said: “I would wait until the leaves are down and dormant to cut back a bit just for shape in December.”
Expert advice says that when trees are dormant in winter, it’s easier for gardeners to assess the tree’s natural shape without leaves in the way.
After pruning time, the guidance is clear – just remove misplaced or crossing shoots to promote a well-structured branch group.
If reducing height or width is necessary, gardeners should trace long branches to the sides and cut at that point.
Always cut back to a strategically placed branch and avoid leaving stumps behind as they tend to rot and cause the tree to die.
