We have this maple in our yard that is a favorite in the neighborhood due to its fall colors. I’m concerned about the large lower branches and their effect on the long term structure of the tree. Should I remove branches 1/2/3? Obviously I would reduce them slowly over the years, but a rough plan year by year would be helpful. We live in the Colorado front range where 80-100mph winds in the winter are not uncommon.
by slightgreaterthanavg
5 Comments
I’m more worried about the upper branches being bare. I’ve got a tree just like that. Leaves out nice…. Then the upper branches get naked too soon, about mid summer. Tree seems healthy except for that. I’m commenting hoping someone will have some knowledge to that.
None. If you want to reduce chance of a branch breaking and weight you remove smaller branches towards the ends, not larger branches
> I’m concerned about the large lower branches and their effect on the long term structure of the tree.
What is their effect on the long term structure of the tree?
My first thought was to trim . But , upon closer inspection i’ve changed my mind . Now i say don’t cut any !
Also in the Denver Metro and my autumn blaze maple has similar symptoms. Ultimately, its soil quality and iron chlorosis that is driving the yellowing of the leaves and bare branch tips. Also the leaves are a little smaller than they should be.
Combine that with squirrel damage and the tree is struggling. I’m having my arborist do injections in the fall after the leaves drop, which seems to help. But soil remediation is basically impossible, so it’s a losing battle long term unfortunately.