Just Planted An Acer Atrop In Need For Prunning, But The Weather Is Too Rainy. Should I Prune It Now?

Question

I planted last weekend an Acer Palmatum Atropurpureum. It came from mainland, which have a diferente climate. I live in an island with very cloudy and rainy winters. I can see that my maple needs pruning due to several crossing branches. There is also a big branch coming out of the base that should have been cut off a long time ago. Since I ve just planted the tree a few days ago, should I prune it now? Regarding that big branch coming from the base (photo 1), can I cut it right above the branch collar, or by doing it, I m compromising the good health of the tree? And if I do so, should I use a sealant to give extra protection against all the humidity? Some lichens are growing on too (photo 2). Are they harmless, or should I rip them off? Many thanks

Answer 1

It would seem that your climate will allow for a true dormancy for the tree. This is the best time to prune. I see signs of new growth, so it can still be good to do so, now.

When removing crossing branches, it is best to do so as completely as possible. There is no need to seal the wound. If you would like to spray it with peroxide or alcahol, then that will be fine. That is not completely necessary, though.

Since you are in a humid region, the lichens will be expected. They will not cause harm to your tree. You can remove them if you wish, though.

Here are some articles that will help you:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maple-care-pruning.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maple-feeding.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maple-care.htm

Answer 2

Thanks a lot. I was wondering if removing that entire crossing branch on the base, would represent 30% or more of the pruning budget for the year. But I guess that either way, it's best for the tree to remove it completely. Once again thanks.

Answer 3

Trees, such as those from the genus of Acer, will tolerate heavier pruning than 30 percent. This is a guideline for each pruning session, which can be done several weeks apart. While still breaking dormancy, they will tend to tolerate heavier prunings. This can, even, force faster initiation for the year! I wouldn’t worry much about the amount that you prune for this tree. Generally, this is good practice. It will be fine to break practice in this case, however.

Answer 4

Thanks again for your great feedback. I'm learning a lot. 😉
One last question for this tree. I removed that big wayward branch comming from the base. But I'm still wondering if I should apply some kind of sealant or not. The problem is that on this climate with high levels of humidity, temperatures never go below 6° Celsious (42.8° F). And that's on rare days. For instance, todays temperature is around 16° C (60.8° F)…
Should I apply a sealant? And if so, what kind of?