To Defoliate an Ash or not - HELP

[bouquet]

I know this subject has been spoken at length before but I can't seem to find any information on the question I have.

I have an Ash that is only at pre bonsai stage. Some of the leaves have already started to turn brown and drop off (both green and brown leaves).

Is it advisable to remove all leave for the winter period so I can work on the branch structure or should I let nature take it course and allow the leaves to fall off naturally.

I ask this because all defoliation methods and info I can find say to be doing mainly during the growing session.

Any advice is appreciated.

Regards

[Grant Bowie]

You can cut them all off if you wish to work on the tree.

Otherwise let them fall as I can see no definite benefit from cutting off the autumn leaves now; but also no detriment to the tree if you do.

Grant