when to shape a tree?

[mga]

a couple of years ago i planted two crimson red king maples. right now they are about 12 feet tall.

should i let them get bigger before i try to shape them?

what time of the year is best to trim them?

 

[tree digger]

I shape maples whenever i have time, i have never noticed any adverse reaction, i just try be gentle taking a little bit at a time so i never need to make any large wounds, they will "bleed" some during sap run. I think you will find most large growers target the pruning during late fall early winter just due to being able to see the branch structure without leaf in the way.

 

[mga]

thanks!