As the last leaves of autumn fall, British gardeners are being urged to undertake one crucial piece of maintenance to ensure their Japanese acers put on a spectacular display next year. According to a horticultural specialist, late November presents the perfect window for this vital task.
The Perfect Time to Prune
The expert, known as Ish on TikTok, has highlighted that the tail end of November and early December is the ideal period for pruning these popular deciduous trees. The reasoning is rooted in the plant's natural cycle. "Whilst the tree has lost its leaves, all of the energy that's usually in the stems and in the branches filters its way back down to the base of the stem and the root system," Ish explained.
This energy shift means gardeners can be more assertive with their pruning without risking damage to the plant, a concern that would be present if pruning were done during the summer growing season.
How to Prune Your Acer Correctly
Winter pruning offers a clear advantage: with the foliage gone, the plant's structure is completely visible. This makes it easy to identify which parts need removing.
Ish advises gardeners to look for dead stems, which are a pale brown colour, in contrast to the healthy dark reddish-brown wood typical of acers. These should be snipped right back to the base of the stem.
However, the technique isn't just about removing dead wood. It's also crucial to tackle overcrowding. "Keep an eye out for any branches that are rubbing together or getting too close, and trim those back as well," the expert recommended. If the stems are congested at the top of the plant, cutting them back by about a third is advised.
The Reward for Winter Work
Ish admits that the immediate result of this pruning "is not going to look pretty in the winter months." But he promises a significant payoff. "In the spring, it'll absolutely thank you. And your acer tree will look even better than it did last year," he stated.
This proactive care helps the plant's leaves remain robust, protecting them from damage caused by cold winds and potential frost, which can lead to leaf scorch. The Royal Horticultural Society also emphasises care during late winter and early spring for this very reason.
For those who miss the late November window, the task can still be carried out in late December or January, ensuring your acer is primed for a vibrant and full resurgence when spring arrives.
