Père David’s maple: when and how to prune

Père David’s maple: when to prune it?

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Prune only when needed, in summer (July–August) or early winter (November–December).

What else to prune in those months? July · August · November · December

Père David’s maple: how to prune it?

1. Gradually remove the lowest side branches over a few years to clear the trunk or trunks.
2. Remove dead, damaged and crossing branches.
3. Cut just outside the branch collar, the swollen ring at the base of the branch: the wound then closes best.
4. Never prune much at once: a few branches a year at most.

How much to cut, and how often?

• There are 2 pruning periods a year: July–August and November–December. You don’t have to prune in every one.
• Never remove more than about a quarter of the crown at once. Better a little every year.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in July–August can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Field maple
• Sycamore
• Amur maple
• Box elder
• Italian maple
• Japanese maple

Plant profile: Père David’s maple · Pruning calendar and basic rules