Pruning Japanese maples comes with a few rules for how and when to carry out this gardening task if you want to get the most out of them.

Pruning is a vital part of caring for Japanese maples, also referred to as Acer trees, as it contributes to the health, and aesthetics, and “keeps them looking beautiful for longer”.

According to Michael Francis of Maple Ridge Nursery, proper pruning helps the plant “maintain a desirable shape, promotes air circulation, and encourages them to grow vigorously”.

Before you even think about taking out your pruning shears, owners need to know when the optimal time is to tackle the job.

Michael said: “The timing of pruning plays a crucial role in promoting the overall well-being and aesthetic appeal of the tree. 

“The best time to prune Japanese maples is during late winter to early spring, typically before the tree breaks dormancy.”

So why at this time? Well, at this period, when the tree is still in its dormant state, stress is minimised and the risk of diseases is reduced. 

He added: “Pruning during this time allows the tree to allocate resources more efficiently, promoting vigorous growth when the growing season begins.”

Dormant pruning performed when the tree is not actively growing, is ideal for major structural adjustments and the removal of dead or diseased wood. 

It provides a clear view of the tree’s structure, making it easier to identify and address issues without the distraction of foliage.

It's generally recommended to avoid significant pruning during late spring and summer when the tree is actively growing, as it stimulates new growth that can be susceptible to damage from harsh weather conditions or pests. 

Plus, the tree may focus all the energy on healing pruning wounds rather than focusing on foliage development.

However, light pruning can be done throughout the growing season to remove small, dead, or damaged branches.

This includes the removal of dead or damaged branches, small shaping of the canopy, and maintaining the overall form of the tree. 

Be cautious not to remove too much foliage during the growing season, as it may stress the tree.