Basically, maples should be pruned as little as possible, as these trees tend to bleed and also quickly become infected with various pathogens. The red maple (Acer rubrum) native to North America is no exception to this rule. However, as the thoroughly positive experiences of many bonsai lovers show, pruning is quite feasible under certain conditions and if various rules are observed, and in many cases it even makes sense.

Red maple should be pruned as little as possible

Do not cut more than absolutely necessary

When it comes to pruning, the red maple is quite sensitive, as it tends - like all maples - to bleed. In addition, pathogens quickly penetrate through the open wounds, which in turn leads to a weakening of the tree and the death of the affected parts of the plant, if not the entire tree. In addition, red maple, which is also typical of various types of maple, does not sprout from old wood. Nevertheless, a pruning may be necessary for various reasons, for example

  • to remove dead shoots and branches
  • cut away diseased or fungus-infected parts of the plant
  • encourage bushier growth
  • to keep a container plant or a bonsai small
  • to force the tree into a certain shape

Instructions for a successful pruning

Of course, a necessary pruning does not always result in the tree dying off, provided you adhere to the following rules:

  • Always cut at the right time of year.
  • Only use disinfected and sharp tools.
  • Seal cuts with a wound sealant.
  • You can obtain suitable wound closure materials primarily from bonsai retailers,
  • because they have a long experience with maples.
  • Never cut into old wood
  • or only if it is absolutely necessary.
  • Do not cut shoots and branches directly at their origin, but leave a small stub.
  • This dries up over time.
  • Always cut a few centimeters before a bud.
  • From here the tree can sprout again.

The right time for a cut back

Due to their tendency to bleed, maples should never be pruned during the growing season as sap pressure is very high at this time and bleeding cannot be stopped. Since pruning should also be avoided in late autumn or winter due to the risk of infection, it is best to use pruning shears in spring. Choose a frost-free period before the leaves sprout.

tips

Dead plant parts can be cut back at any time, as long as healthy shoots and branches are not affected.

Category:

Trees