Im contemplating trimming off a couple of the smallest branches that are lowest to the ground. They are probably 6 inches up from the ground. I would prefer more of a tree look than a shrub. This is a Emperor 1 Japanese Maple and when I bought it was about 5ft tall. I planted it about 3 years ago.
Is it safe to remove some of the small branches at the bottom or would I be ruining the trees look or causing it any harm. If I decide to remove the branches I will do it late winter before it begins to leaf out.
Here is a picture of the tree.
