Pruning Japanese Maple: Timing and Technique

Homeowner wants to reduce height of overgrown Japanese maple blocking windows.

When to Prune

Major pruning: Dormant season (late Nov–early Jan), before sap rise.

Corrective/training: Anytime except during sap rise/leaf emergence.

How to Cut

• Just beyond a pair of buds → produces two side shoots.
• Large limbs: cut at branch collar (ridge where branch joins stem).
• Never cut below collar (disease entry).
• No long stubs (disease food source).

Tools and Aftercare

• Sharp tools essential—clean cuts heal faster.
• Sterilize between trees.
• No wound paint—air dry prevents disease.