Can we talk about wisteria for a minute? I mean, a vine in full bloom is like something straight out of a fairy tale.The long, vibrant clusters of blossoms and t
06.06.2023 - 20:42 / gardenerspath.com / Kristine Lofgren
How and When to Prune Japanese MaplesA healthy Japanese maple is a sight to behold.
They’re some of the most frequently photographed trees in the world and the really striking ones draw people to gardens across the globe. Their elegant, organic forms are instantly recognizable, whether weeping or upright.
But most Japanese maples don’t just produce those stunning shapes on their own. Left to their own devices, they can become overcrowded and a bit misshapen.
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The most striking specimens have been pruned carefully to preserve their natural shape while enhancing their appearance.
Don’t feel overwhelmed. Pruning well isn’t as challenging as you might think. It’s really about bringing out the best in your Japanese maple without trying to change its overall form, tidying up rather than making serious changes.
This guide will help you nail the process. Here’s everything we’ll go over to help you do that:
Pull out the pruners, loppers, and saws. Give them a quick wipe with a soapy dish cloth. Pull on those gloves. We’re ready to go.
When to Prune Japanese MaplesIf a branch cracks or breaks in a storm, you notice growth that’s dying or is diseased, or a single branch is touching your home or interfering with a walkway, prune it any old time you want.
But if you want to change the shape of the plant or remove large branches, winter is the time to do it. The plant is dormant at this time of year and you can more easily see the shape of the tree without any foliage in the way.
If you prune in the middle of winter, you can also avoid causing the tree to leak sap. Leaking sap doesn’t hurt the plant, but it’s unsightly and no one
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