Knowledgebase

Leggy Maple Tree Pruning help. #810790

Asked September 14, 2022, 2:02 PM EDT

Hello, I am trying to learn tree care and hopefully Bonsai, but the young Maple in the attached image got away from me and is shooting straight up. Shouldn't it be a little bushy rather than so leggy and tall? I have been reading online to try and find if I can top the tree without damaging it, but many articles I read say cutting the main branch is not good for the tree. I assume the single tall branch / shoot going straight up is the main branch, maybe? I am hoping someone with experience might suggest if and where I could prune the tree so as not to damage it but help if become strong and aesthetically pleasing again? Best, Dick R

Washington County Oregon

Expert Response

Bonsai pruning isn't the same as in regular gardening or agriculture. We don't have an expert available to answer your question directly. I'll provide a few links I've found.
I've grown many of these little maples, and they will continue to grow a "leader" branch to become the new upright trunk. You'll need to find advice on early training of a tree for bonsai.
Prior Q & A, #795999
U. of Michigan Bonsai DIY
NSCU Bonsai Garden
Bonsai Society of Portland
Jacki D., Master Gardener Diagnostician Volunteer (Washington, Multnomah and Clackamas Counties) Oregon State University Extension Service Volunteer Metro Master Gardeners (http://metromastergardeners.org/) Replied September 14, 2022, 2:29 PM EDT
Hello,
Ah thank you for your prompt response.
Sounds like pruning / topping that leggy branch of the little Maple is not much of a concern then.

Also thank you for the additional input regarding future Bonsai ventures.

Best,
Dick R



On 9/14/2022 11:29 AM, Ask Extension wrote:
The Question Asker Replied September 14, 2022, 2:48 PM EDT

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