If the steps are followed below for the Japanese Acer group, then it is possible to open up the centre of the shrub - which might be good if it is a large specimen. The resultant form can be attained over several years of light formative pruning. Much of the beauty of the Maples is their branch structure - other than the beautiful foliage for which they are normally grown.
Often after severe winters, there is a case for cutting out damaged shoots and branches on Japanese Maples. Sometimes this winter damage does not show through until leaf break time in late Spring. Simply cut the dead wood back to a pair of live sprouting buds - about 2cm - 1in above.
This group of shrubs rarely need anything other than the lightest pruning (a) to bring back the shrub into a more desired shape, and (b) to take out 'rogue' crossing and week shoots.
In this diagram, you will see some 'crossing' shoots and a few small twigs - which if allowed to grow - will spoil the shape of the shrub.
In the summer growing season, it is a good idea to loosely tie a little tape or string where you think best to prune for the desired shape in the coming Autumn.
This diagram shows the proposed pruning cuts at the red marks - to sort out the few potential problems mentioned above. The aim should simply be to open up the centre of the shrub. This is more preferable for Acers, so that the attractive branch form can be seen,
Always make the pruning cut back to within a few inches of the main branch. There will be a little dieback of the stub, but this is normally self-healing and does not require any of the tar based pruning treatments.
The pruning has been done! 2 further small branches 'instantly better' shape, but I would wait to see what sprouts on the left and side to even things up a little!
The least done to this group the better! If really necessary, can be reduced in size at this time of year, but far better to allow it to grow to its proper maturity. Most of the foliage growth will be around the perimeter of the branches - so there will be plenty of room to under-plant attractive low growing shrubs or perennials.
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Pruning