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Question from Jon, Syracuse, New York (received 5/1/20) -

Hello,

I live in Syracuse and I planted a Norway Maple in my backyard 3 years ago shortly after we built our home. I'm wondering if I need to (or can, for aesthetics) prune the tree? And if so, how do I do this, what is the best time to do so, etc.?

Thank you,

Jon

Answer from Gabrielle Harden, USU Forestry Extension Educator (sent 5/1/20) -

Hi Jon,

It is not necessary to prune your tree unless it is unhealthy, has hazardous branches, or needs shaping. If the tree is healthy and has good form (shape), I would refrain from pruning. Should you have the need to prune your maple tree, it is best to do so in winter or early spring when the tree is still dormant. Maples tend to give off a sap when pruned during that time of year, but it is nothing to cause alarm and will stop within a few days. If you're wanting the tree to be more shaped, you certainly could prune, but again, you should wait until winter when the tree is dormant. Where you cut the branch is dependent on what type of pruning you're trying to do. If you want to cut back a leader, you can prune the leader to the point where another branch is, given that the remaining branch is healthy and at least 1/3 the diameter of the branch being removed. If you want to remove a larger branch or lower branches, you must prune to the stem (trunk) of the tree. Pruning causes significant stress to a tree, so you will never want to prune off more than 25% of the trees leaf area.