How to Trim a Red Maple Tree

A red maple's fall color display depends on the cultivar.

Red maple--known also by its scientific name Acer rubrum--is a fast-growing tree with a pleasing oval shape. Its ornamental use is limited to big yards, since it can reach a height of 75 feet with a 25- to 35-foot spread. The red maple is one of the first trees to present a leaf display in autumn. Its brilliant fall colors--red, orange and yellow--can last several weeks. Like the silver maple, the red maple's roots can raise sidewalks, so use care in choosing where to plant.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• Lopping shears
• Pole pruners

Instructions

1. Identify dead, diseased or broken branches. Since red maple is susceptible to breakage, you are likely to find broken branches. Using the pruning shears, cut the branches at the point of origin. If the branches are greater than a half inch in diameter, use the lopping shears. Use sharp, clean pruning tools and make clean, smooth cuts. If a branch is above your reach, use the pole pruner, taking care that the branch does not fall on your head.

2. Consider the season. While dead and damage wood can be cut any time during the year, red maples--like most other trees--should not be trimmed for any other reason until late winter or early spring.

3. Decide what training cuts need to be made. By trimming off branches, the tree is trained to grow in a particular shape, whether to fill in a damaged area or to limit growth. As the natural shape of a red maple is tall and circular, avoid destroying its natural shape when you trim.

4. Evaluate the tree for narrow or weak branch crotches that can split, seriously damaging the tree. Red maple is prone to these problems as well, so trim branches below the crotch. Make slanted (angular) cuts when removing branches to prevent water from collecting in the cut.

5. Look for branches that grow almost straight up through the crown and do not form strong attachments to the trunk. Remove these branches to prevent branch-loss damage when the tree is older.

Tips & Warnings

• The need for pruning can be reduced or eliminated entirely by choosing to plant the tree in a proper location, according to the Texas A&M Extension.

• Consider hiring a professional if you need to cut large or high branches.

References

• University of Florida Extension: Acer Rubrum, Red Maple
• Texas A&M Agrilife Extension: Follow Proper Pruning Techniques