Pruning an acer tree

aj9648

Hi

We have a great acer tree in our back garden but over the last few years it has got big. It’s nearly as tall as our house and reaching out into the next door garden. They have not complained about it

I’m looking to prune it this year - I’m assuming I should do it in the autumn? Also any tips on how best to prune it without killing it!!

I also have some conifers that need a serious sheer - again do it in autumn rather than now?

Thanks

sheramber

Acers should be pruned in winter- December to February. Nearer February in colder areas.

Cut back to a bud.

What kind of conifers? Some do not respond to pruning as they don't grow from old wood.

aj9648

I had the conifers cut a few years ago and they all grew back......rather quickly than anticipated !!!

sheramber

Then cut them at the same time of year again.

Primrose

Prune your acre late autumn after the leaves have all fallen. It will be easier then to see the skeleton of the tree so that you are pruning the shape evenly.

You can probably start probably start pruning the conifers now. If they grew back,previously you will know which wood to cut. My advice is always to prune back more generously than you plan as they always seem to grow more quickly than you realise and that way you save yourself another prune in the future!