This maple has NEVER been pruned before and it resulted in a severe amount of dead branches inside. Dead branches takes up a lot of space, blocks sunlight, and weighs down the tree a lot. Most maples in the Seattle area are pruned using power tools and hedge trimmers for a quick and easy job, but this results in a mushroom look. Some people prefer the mushroom look and that's perfectly fine, but we find maples are most magnificent when pruned using bonsai techniques to unveil the hidden structure.
We've broken down the method into four steps. This process takes a lot of time and patience, but the end result is what you would call a Niwaki, or a garden tree.
Step 1: Choose the right tools. Leave your hedge trimmers and power tools. Grab hand tools instead. This allows you to have full control of which branch to remove. We've partnered with Barnel USA and PNE Tools to offer you a 10% discount on the tools we use. Head on over to http://www.pnetools.com/bonsai and use promo code "BONSAI" to get 10% off select tools.
Step 2: Remove the dead branches. This is easiest to do from the inside. It gets very messy and dusty, but doing it this way allows you to see the light colored dead branches a lot easier.
Step 3: Thin out the structure. Slowly but surely trim back the new growth using the 1-2-3 rule and removing the middle branch. This process will take you the most time. You don't have to complete the tree all in one day. Just do a little bit at a time over the course of several days.
Step 4: Branch adjustment. This is only done if needed. You may want to move some branches to cover unsightly gaps. Simply grab some rope and tie some branches together to adjust them.
Step 5: Enjoy the results!
Use promo code "BONSAI" to get 10% off select Barnel tools!: http://www.pnetools.com/bonsai
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