The Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) is one of the most popular ornamental trees in German gardens. In particular, red Japanese maple inspires with its distinctive leaf color and the filigree structure of the foliage. The tree-like shrub is also traditionally often raised as a bonsai.

Japanese maple should be cut as seldom as possible

Cut Japanese maple or rather not?

Usually, maples should not be pruned if possible, as they do not tolerate pruning well due to a high tendency to bleed. Even the Japanese maple should not be pruned more than absolutely, but it is generally more tolerant of pruning than other types of maple. A regular pruning can even have advantages with Acer palmatum, so a cut promotes the fine branching of the filigree shrub and denser foliage.

The optimal cutting time

As with all other types of maple, however, the correct time for pruning should also be used with the Japanese maple. It is essential to avoid pruning in autumn or winter, as the tree tends to bleed at this time and fungi and other pathogens can easily penetrate the wood. In addition, cuts should be able to heal in good time before winter so that the tree survives the cold season in good health. For this reason, the Japanese maple should be pruned in May or June if possible.

Do not cut into old wood

Furthermore, if possible, only cut into fresh wood, less into wood that is two or more years old. The reason for this lies in the tendency of this year's wood to reliably develop new shoots - a tendency that older shoots no longer have. Make sure you always remove shoots one to two centimeters above a bud or a branch, because from there the tree develops new side shoots more easily. The remainder is treated with a wound closure agent and only removed after drying.

Always disinfect cutting tools

Hygiene is particularly important with every pruning - especially with regard to the risk of infection with wilt or another fungal disease. The cutting tool should be sharp and freshly disinfected. Disinfection must also be carried out after treatment in order to counteract the possible transmission of pathogens.

Treat cut wounds with wound sealant

Due to the high tendency to bleed, it also makes sense to always treat cuts on Japanese maples with a disinfecting wound sealant. This not only curbs bleeding, but also prevents the ingress of pathogens.

tips

When raising a Japanese maple to become a bonsai, all shoot tips are first removed in the spring. This measure leads to finer branching, and the tree then develops smaller leaves.

Category:

Trees