Care Sheets & Tips
JAPANESE MAPLE CARE SHEET
Site Selection Japanese Maples grow well in our climate if a few basic principles are followed. Of primary importance is to try to select a planting site that is our of the severe northwest winter winds. Try to avoid these sites. If it is exposed to wind, ensure that the tree is well wrapped with burlap in winter. Japanese Maples will grow well in any soil type, provided it is well drained. Japanese Maples will grow in full sun to almost full shade but prefer to be protected from the late afternoon sun. The red leaf colours will be darker in higher light conditions. Planting When preparing the site for planting, mix one part peatmoss to three parts soil thoroughly in a hole much larger than is required to fit the root ball. Water heavily at a planting time and mulch the entire root area with a two inch layer of bark shavings, leaves or peat to ensure water retention and cool roots. Only moderate amounts of fertilizer like 15-30-15 or 4-12-8 should be used at a planting time. Fertilizing and Trimming established plants
Diseases Japanese Maples are subject to very few pests. Aphids, and leaf cutters and rollers, may appear in spring and may be effectively treated with Wilson’s Tree and Shrub Spray diluted at half the regular strength. Mildew may appear in very humid conditions and is most effectively treated with Captan. Winter Protection Wrap Japanese Maples for at least the first three years with burlap. In more exposed conditions, wrap every year. This is a must to ensure minimum winter damage. A heavy watering just prior to freeze up will also ensure minimum drying out. An extra heavy mulch application in late fall will also help Japanese Maple roots to be protected. |
Blue Hollies
Growing Your Own Asparagus, Rhubard, Strawberries & Raspberries How to Maintain Your Newly Planted Trees And Shrubs Plants To Attract Hummingbirds Water Lilies And Aquatic Gardens
|
Once established, Japanese Maples may be lightly fertilized only in the early spring (April) with 4-12-8 fertilizer or 15-30-15 water soluble. Major structural trimming may be done prior to bud break. Lighter pruning may be done any time in June after the first major flush of growth hardens.