Developing red maple bonsai

I’ve had a lot of fun working with red maples, also known as swamp maples, over the past few years.

The basic training routine is the same as it is for other deciduous species – prune and reduce foliage in the middle of the growing season and then prune again fall. Depending on how vigorously the tree grows, you can repeat the spring work several times during the growing season.

For an example of what this work looks like, here’s a photo of a red maple from last winter.

November, 2023

In spring, after the first flush of growth hardened off, I pruned and partially defoliated the tree to prevent the interior branches from becoming weak.

May, 2024

After partial defoliation

I removed large leaves during the remainder of the growing season and shortened some long shoots but otherwise let the tree grow until fall.

Once most of the leaves had turned color, I removed the leaves by hand, when they came off easily, and with scissors, when they were stubborn.

Fall color – December, 2024

Removing a leaf by hand

Removing a leaf with scissors

After removing the leaves

Once I could see the branch structure clearly, I made a few kinds of cuts on the tree. I shortened long branches, removed heavy branches near the exterior of the tree, and thinned cluttered areas.

After pruning – 27″

Although I’ve only been working on this specimen for four years, the change has been dramatic.

Top row: 2020, 2021
Bottom row: 2023, 2024

I don’t know where I’ll end up with this tree, but I’m really enjoying the process.

News & Updates

• If you’re in (or planning to visit) the Seattle area next weekend, you can catch the 10th annual Winter Bonsai Solstice at the Pacific Bonsai Museum on December 14th from 4pm – 7pm. It’s one of only two nights a year the museum is open after dark – a great opportunity to see beautiful bonsai illuminated by soft holiday lights. Plan your visit or learn more about the museum at pacificbonsaimuseum.org.
• The Baikoen Bonsai Kenkyukai is hosting their 61st annual exhibit, Winter Silhouettes, on January 18-19, 2025, in the Ayers Hall of Environmental Education at the Arboretum of Los Angeles County (301 North Baldwin Avenue in Arcadia, California). Demos both days at 1pm. The event features a sales area, a beautiful exhibit, and is one of the top opportunities to see deciduous bonsai without their leaves.