Hi all I've had this 'Shishigashira' for about a year, I'm not sure if it should be pruned or let be for now. Most other maples are easy to see where to prune and shape, but this one I'm not so sure. It's about 4 feet tall above pot and seems very happy. Sorry for the quality of pics but we've gone from the mid 50s to expecting 18 overnight tonight and tomorrow night, so I'm moving some of the trees that have started pushing buds in to the garage. Thanks Cirque
One side looks a little congested. I like these pruned to really highlight the tightness of the leaves to the branches and emphasize the structure. That said, I think it may be too late to prune, the sap should be running pretty strong. I'd wait at this point until summer and really look at it then. You could do some pruning and then think about heavier work next January if you feel it is needed.
Probably be better if you left it alone. Once cut off, it can't be put back. Shouldn't be much need or scope for pruning of a 'Shishigashira' - except maybe for one being trained as a bonsai.
