Instead of moving a tree, why not shape it so it fits better in its location? Agricultural extension agent George Killgore offers tips on turning a big tree into a smaller one. Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) trees are often expensive. George recommends purchasing these handsome trees in the autumn so you can observe their fall color. Fall is also the ideal time to plant these trees. The soil is still warm so the roots can grow and develop before the ground freezes. If you plant in fall, mulch the soil surrounding the tree to prevent damage to the roots from the heat of Indian summer and the first frosts of winter. You'll need some special tools to shape a Japanese maple. Use lopping shears to make larger cuts and open the framework of the tree to encourage maximum air circulation and help prevent fungus disease. Use hand pruners to make heading cuts to create the final shape of the tree. Heading refers to removing just the tips of small branches to a bud that will direct new growth outward. When you begin pruning, look for any branches that are injured, broken or diseased. Remove them, leaving a small amount of branch collar attached to the trunk (figure A). The branch collar is the wrinkled area at the base of the branch. If pruning cuts are made properly, the tree will quickly form a callus over the wound. Now remove any branches that cross through the center of the tree (figure B ). These could cause problems by rubbing on neighboring branches and causing injury--and they also reduce air circulation, which invites disease. Look for conflicting branches growing from the same limb. These look like two fingers close together and could cause problems. Remove one of the twin branches so the main branch won't have to carry such a heavy load when the tree is mature (figure C). Conflicting branches could eventually grow together, creating areas where water may become trapped and cause rot.
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