Winter is a calm period for outdoor bonsai—and exactly for that reason, ideal for pruning. With the sap flow at its lowest and deciduous trees standing bare, you get a perfect view of the tree’s structure. This makes it the best time to shape your bonsai and remove unwanted branches.
Why prune in winter?
Winter pruning offers several benefits:
- the sap flow is minimal, reducing the risk of sap bleeding,
- the tree’s structure is fully visible without foliage,
- wounds heal evenly once spring growth begins.
For many deciduous species, winter is the ideal moment for more substantial structural work.
Which bonsai should be pruned in winter?
Suitable species
- Japanese maple (Acer) — avoid pruning too late in winter to prevent sap bleeding
- Beech (Fagus)
- Hornbeam (Carpinus)
- Elm (Ulmus)
- Larch (Larix)
Less suitable species
- Species that bleed heavily in early spring (such as birch and walnut)
- Mediterranean species sensitive to cold
- Conifers — these respond better to pruning in late spring to summer
How to proceed
1. Study the tree’s structure
With the leaves gone, you can clearly identify:
- crossing branches
- inward-growing or overly vertical shoots
- branches that sit too close together
Take a moment to visualize the shape you want to achieve.
2. Remove problem branches
Start by cutting:
- dead or damaged twigs
- branches that interfere with each other
- growth that disrupts balance or silhouette
This opens the canopy and restores harmony to the tree.
3. Refine the shape
Now you can perform the major structural adjustments:
- shorten long branches
- restore the primary outline
- cut back overly strong branches to maintain proportion
This step determines how your bonsai will grow and develop once spring returns.
4. Pay attention to buds
Many deciduous trees already carry their buds in winter. Prune carefully so you don’t remove the growth your tree will rely on in spring.
Winter aftercare
- Protect against severe frost, especially young or recently pruned bonsai.
- Do not fertilise — wait until active growth starts in spring.
- Water sparingly — the soil should stay slightly moist, never soaked.
When to skip winter pruning
If your bonsai already has a stable, open structure, winter pruning may not be necessary. This period is most useful for trees that still need shaping or have become too dense.