I know there is a lot of debate about when or if to prune your Japanese Maple. I inherited my two beauties when we moved into our starter home 5 years ago. They were one of the reasons we bought the place. The curb appeal with the gorgeous red leafed trees absolutely stole our hearts.

Over the years to prune or not to prune became a mute point for me. I HAD to cut them down some because the previous owner planted them too close to the house. They grow into my windows and up into my guttering if I do not.

So, from someone who has to prune his maples, here is how I do it.

It's currently the end of October when I'm writing this so it's almost time to cut my trees back again. I always wait for it to turn colder (here in the Midwest). I actually prefer to have the leaves drop off as well before I start cutting, but my trees really hold there leaves, often until the first or second week of December!

I have cut any time here in late fall early winter and not seen any problem with my trees.

As far as cutting, I use sharp limb cutters. For added safety, I will clean them in bleach before I start just to make sure I am not transferring any disease from any other trees that I have been cutting on.

I try to cut at a fork of larger branches and at a slight angle.

For smaller branches, I will cut them directly off at the main trunk if it does not imbalance the overall look of the tree.

Now, many experts will tell you to apply a resin or sealant to the cut area for added protection. I have never done this in the five years of caring for my trees. One disclaimer thought - my trees were hybrid-formed. They are not natural Japanese maples. I would guess the hybrids are a bit sturdier and heartier than their pure bred cousins.

Unsure of what you have?

Just look at the base of your tree. Is there a knot or hole near the base or is it a straight clean trunk?

If it is straight and clean, it is likely a pure specimen.

If it has a knot or abnormally looking trunk base, it is probably a hybrid tree.

If your tree is mature, it will likely survive you cutting it back some.

One word of caution though - do not go nuts! Cutting away too much could shock the tree and eventually kill it or make it really sick looking, so be careful.

Enjoy yourself and enjoy your trees!

Jeff Carroll is a fan of gardening and outdoor grilling. He even has his own grilling website for Weber Charcoal Grills.

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