The branches you want to trim are any small or new ones that stick out at strange angles or cross each other. You should aim to emphasise the tree’s natural form - that distinctive dome shape - but don’t be too rigid with this, as Acers usually look best when they’re allowed to grow naturally. As the tree matures, or if you already have a mature Acer, you may wish to do a little pruning to improve the shape. Roots trees are professionally pruned before being sent to you, to make sure the young tree grows into a well formed specimen. Mature trees need a good flow of air around the branches in order to prevent the spread of fungal diseases and moulds such as powdery mildew and honey fungus: spacing out your trees well and pruning are the best ways to achieve this. For mature Acers, you might want to prune out any crossing or overcrowded branches to open up the canopy and let more air through. Check them regularly and cut off any dead, diseased or damaged wood - after a severe winter you might see frost-damaged tips which can also be cut off. If your trees are left to grow naturally and you’re not fussy about size or shape, you’ll only need to do occasional pruning for maintenance and good health. It’s very important for all your equipment to be cleaned between trees, to prevent the spread of disease. If your Acer is very large or mature, you may need a pruning saw. You’ll need a pair of sharp secateurs and for taller trees, some loppers or long handled pruners. Larger varieties are also happy to be left alone, but it’s more likely you’ll want to restrict their size or shape them to fit your garden. It’s best to keep it to a minimum as excessive pruning can weaken the tree - the effect you’re aiming for is a well-shaped tree which doesn’t look like it’s been pruned! Small Acers (Max height 4m and under) are best left to grow naturally and only pruned very lightly if at all, to maintain their shape. When pruning your Acer, the key is don’t overdo it. If you do choose to prune your Acer, it’s important to do it well - and lightly. However there are several reasons why you might want to carry out Acer tree pruning: to shape them, to restrict their size or simply to keep them healthy and well spaced. Strictly speaking, you don’t! Most Acer trees will be perfectly happy left to their own devices. Acers are one of the species particularly prone to bleeding sap, so if you prune in spring or summer when the tree is actively growing, it will bleed from the pruning cuts and become weak or even die. Pruning after the leaves have fallen also makes it easier to see the shape of your tree, although you should avoid pruning when the temperature falls below zero, to prevent frost damage. This means pruning between November and March when the tree is not actively growing, and preferably before the end of January. The golden rule when pruning an Acer is to do it only when the tree is dormant. Read on to find out when, why and how to start pruning Acers like a pro. When they do need a trim, however, there are a few things you need to know in order to keep your tree healthy and looking good. Acer trees (or Japanese Maples ) are compact, low maintenance trees which generally need very little pruning.
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