When should I prune my Japanese maple to ensure its vitality and aesthetic appeal? Is there a specific season that is most advantageous for trimming these delicate trees? As I ponder the best time for this horticultural endeavor, should I consider the age and size of the tree, as well as the particular cultivar of Japanese maple I have? Could the timing affect not only the health of the plant but also its overall shape and branching structure? Furthermore, what weather conditions should be taken into account to avoid potential damage or stress to the tree? Could late winter or early spring, just before new growth emerges, be the ideal moment for pruning, or might there be alternative windows that I am unaware of? Ultimately, what techniques should I employ during the pruning process to ensure that my Japanese maple thrives and maintains its striking beauty year after year?