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Cutting back an acer to prevent it becoming too big

toothfaerytoothfaery Posts: 1
in Problem solving
We have an acer in our front garden, close to the main path. To stop it spreading too much and getting in the way, how is best to trim it? 
Should we do it near a fork in the branches to encourage new shoots closer in or cut under a fork? 
Photo attached of acer in its autumn glory! 

Posts

  • Papi JoPapi Jo Posts: 4,254
    Right side up pic.

  • MolamolaMolamola Posts: 105
    That's a beautiful tree.  I suspect the form of its branches might be very graceful once revealed. 

    Do you have a photo of it right now? It's easiest to advise on pruning when you can see the bare bones.

    My first reaction would be that you should lift the canopy by removing the lowest branches up to a height where it wouldn't be in your way.  But it would be great to have a photo of the bare tree. 
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    I take it that photo is from a while ago?
    Pruning is best done when they're dormant, and that means you can see the shape, as @Molamola says. If they're in growth, you risk damage due to cuts bleeding. 

    It certainly looks quite lopsided - the growth on the right is much greater than the left, so it's likely that you could take some of those branches back. Whether you raise the canopy, or leave it as a bushier shape will depend on your likes/dislikes as much as anything. The shrub in behind it would be in view if the canopy was raised - that might be a consideration for you  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
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