I planted a this maple 2 years ago. Not sure of type. I bought this tree because it said on tag >> in the fall the leaves would be red in color. 1st year covered tree through winter. No problems. 2nd year I believed it was more hearty so, did not cover through winter. This Spring 2009 the tops of all branches were dead and brittle. New foilage has appeared and is healthy. I waited for a month to see if they would come back, which they did not.. In which I pruned each individual branch. MY QUESTION >> This coming 2009 winter should I cover the tree from the elements? It is only approx. 5ft tall or less. Also, was I correct to prune all the dead and brittle branches to the base of the first junction of the tree >> from top and down? I also, had alot of suckers at the base of tree of ground level >> which I prunned them off also. Any input is appreciated