What to do: Sagging JM branches with new growth?

14 years ago

I have two regular, green Japanese Maples that are growing very quickly and the branches are sagging with the weight of the new leaves. I haven't given them any fertilizer. In the past, I've used stakes and ties to keep them upright. One is about 7' and the other about 5' (the smaller one isn't as bad). I may be able to tie up the large one for one more year with bigger stakes, but that might be the last time because of their height.

Can someone tell me what would be the best thing to do with these drooping branches, both now and in the furture? I've uploaded a photo with a link below. Thanks for your help.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{gwi:1037404}}

Comments (3)

Toronado3800 Zone 6 St Louis
14 years ago
I have a similar at a glance japanese maple from the arbor day foundation. Its out in the middle of the yard getting most of a full day of sun.

Are yours getting a bit of shade?

Mine is bushy and sags a bit in the summer. No with leaves on it the fella is shorter than it was a month ago!

Where did you get yours? Some of the cultivars are bred to sag, weeping they'll call it. Wonder how we can work with that natural beauty.....
fogbelt_steve
Original Author
14 years ago
These Japanese Maples are getting nearly full sun here on the northern California coast. I grew the larger tree from seeds a few years ago. It is NOT one of the weeping varieties. The stakes in the photo are from last year and aren't being used now.

I'm wondering if I can thin out the new growth to lessen the weight on the branches?
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kaitain4
14 years ago
Prune. Prune. Prune. Don't be afraid of it - take control.