Japanese maples will look 'better' if pruned in February, according to gardening experts. The task, described as 'heavy pruning', should be done while the tree is fully dormant in winter to avoid sap leakage that can weaken the tree.
Andrew Stark, a gardener with over 30 years of experience, shared his winter pruning tips on Instagram. He explained that he starts by removing dead wood and weaker branches, then takes out congested areas where branches have clumped together. Finally, he reduces the foliage pads by about 50% and tidies the tree.
Stark noted that he has been training and trimming maples for nearly a decade, and each year they improve as a result of ongoing trimming and pruning. The finished trees have a structure with equalised strength in each foliage pad.
Experts at Herter Nursery also insist that now is the time for heavy pruning to shape the tree and remove crossing or dead limbs. Pruning during late spring or summer should be avoided, as fresh growth is vulnerable to harsh weather and pests.
