Styling young maple tree

tg404 Mon Mar 31, 2014 7:16 pm

Hi everyone,

I recently acquired the maple tree below, which I just repotted. Next, I want to prune it and start shaping it into a bonsai. I'm thinking about pruning at the red lines I've drawn in the picture but I have no experience at all! So I'm looking for suggestions about where to prune - I suppose the lower bit will have to go at some point as it is too low?

Thanks a lot for looking!!

Styling young maple tree Photo_11

0soyoung Mon Mar 31, 2014 7:54 pm

I suggest that you let it grow and not do any pruning right now. About mid- to late May, you can trim it back after it has leafed out and shoots have extended to the point it looks unruly. Then cut it back and let it grow out again this summer. Next spring clean up the structure before the buds break (about the time of your photo). Alternatively, you can also do this right after leaf fall, if you prefer.

tg404 Mon Mar 31, 2014 9:38 pm

Hi 0soyoung,

I'll do as you say - thanks so much for the advice!!

Richard S Mon Mar 31, 2014 11:25 pm

I apologise if it's me who's being dim here but are you sure that's a maple?

It appears to have alternate rather than opposing buds which is not very maple like!

Very hard to tell from the photo but it looks more like a Hornbeam to me although it could be lots of other things as well?

Anyhow, it doesn't matter much from a practical point of view, I think Osoyoungs advice would be sound for any broad leaf deciduous tree. Should all become clear once it leafs out.

Regards

Richard

tg404 Mon Mar 31, 2014 11:40 pm

Hi Richard, I think you are right! Sorry but I am a complete beginner. I think it is a lime tree. I got this at the same time as a field maple and must have got them mixed up! Your comment about opposing vs alternate buds was very helpful to distinguish them. I guess I have to go and do some reading about these trees Very Happy

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