The second strategy is to prune Japanese maples, which, according to Mr. Maple specialists, "can actually make your tree grow faster" and provide a "better display." ...

Maple trees contain sap, which will “bleed” if the tree is pruned in early spring or late winter. To avoid this phenomenon, pruning may be put off until summer.

A: If you prune selectively, almost any time is the right time to prune a Japanese maple. With that said, these maples are most easily pruned in winter or summer.