japanese maples

[midagetrolop]

I have several maples and they need tidying up - when should I do this? Please help, all you gardeners.

[lajohn]

Pruning for form is best done in late summer or early autumn. Good form is largely a question of personal taste. We like to let air and light into the center of the tree so that we can see the tracings of branch structure. Working up from the base and from inside to out, clean out small twigs growing along the trunk and major branches, dead wood, and crossed and rubbing branches. Stand back and look carefully at your tree's shape. If it is not pleasing, look for what you need to remove to improve its form. Before making each cut, study where the branch goes and visualize the tree without it. Cut just above a live bud or just in front of the collar (the small ridge where a branch attaches to another).

Planting in the fall can be very rewarding. Try to plant at least 4 to 6 weeks before the ground freezes. The roots get a chance to establish themselves, and, come spring, the tree will be ready to put on new growth. If there is no rain be sure to water until the ground freezes and in the early spring.

Mulching is always a good idea for fall; it will help insulate the roots for winter and protect their early spring growth.

http://www.japanesemaples.com/information/care .php

[midagetrolop]

Thanks lajohn, I thought that was it but wanted confirmation, I will leave them until September, they have never been pruned! But they are beautiful! Once again many thanks.