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How to cut back an acer tree

#1 · 23rd October 2024, 8:32 am

We have an acer tree in the garden which we love, but it's next to the garden fence and our neighbour has asked if we can cut it back where it grows over their fence.

I've asked if we can wait until the leaves have fallen off, which the neighbour is happy with, but how do we cut the tree back without damaging it, and will cutting back in a certain way actually encourage stronger growth over the fence?

If I cut all of the branches which you can see growing over the fence, is that too much to take off in one go?

Will cutting off that side also make it unstable due to the majority of foliage being on our side?

Thanks!

#2 · 27th October 2024, 7:24 am

Hi @eleanor

Thanks for asking about how to prune back an established Acer tree. It can feel daunting and overwhelming, especially for a mature specimen like this one. However, if done correctly and at the right time, mature Acers can be pruned without harming the tree.

It is a real shame your neighbours can't enjoy this blast of greenery and autumnal colour. It goes to show how a little lack of knowledge goes a long way. I'm guessing the 'I don't like the leaf-fall' is the excuse. I can partially understand but it's still a small price to pay for a little borrowed view of a gorgeous tree.

Rant over at ignorance. Back to how to prune an Acer.

Ok, so the best time to prune any Acer is in winter once the leaves have dropped. This is because it allows you to see the branch structure, and the tree is dormant, so it won't bleed sap and stress itself. It also gives the wounds time to heal before spring, when water, sap and energy rise back into the Acer's limbs.

You need clean, sharp secateurs and some garden loppers for this one.

I would take the overhanging branches back to the next main lateral or even the main trunk. Shaping it more as a left leaning weeping form. A bit like a weeping willow, the way they are heavier on one side. You don't just want to trim back what is overhanging, as you'll be left with a harsh straight line of growth, which will look naff IMO.

My crown lifting video below and guide here will show you how to take branches back to the main trunk or lead stems.