Japanese Maples
We love Japanese Maples. These deciduous trees provide year-round interest, offering a wide variety of colors and texture in the spring, summer, and fall, with elegant branches visible in the winter.
Stop by the Nursery today to find your next fall favorite. Will it be the plum-colored Purple Sentinel? A blushing Red Emperor? A sneak-attack Osakasuki, that makes a sudden change from deep green to fiery red in the fall? Or perhaps you’d prefer the vibrant yellows of the Ichigyoji’s autumn leaves? We have all of these varieties and dozens more available for your viewing pleasure!
Tips for Success
Sun
Japanese Maples prefer morning sun and afternoon shade. Most maples will burn in the intense heat of the afternoon sun. Even the more “sun-tolerant” Maples can show signs of leaf burn during the first few growing seasons until they fully adjust to their location. Conversely, putting Maples in deep shade will make their fall color less vibrant.
Soil
Well-drained, compost-rich soil is best for Japanese Maples. If you have heavy clay or sandy soil, and need to amend it, we recommend products such as Gardner & Bloome’s Soil Conditioner or Purely Compost. Just ask us which soil amendment is right for you!
Salt
These trees are not suited for coastal areas with strong winds and salt spray. If there’s any chance that airborne salt will get on the tree, plant it somewhere more protected!
Containers
Japanese Maples can live for many years in large containers, provided they have good drainage and consistent watering. Proper pruning boosts a containerized Maples’ health and vigor. Also, a handful of all-purpose fertilizer applied once a year will be greatly appreciated by your tree! Depending on pot size, a small Maple may need to be root-pruned and re-potted as it grows.
Deer
Unfortunately, deer love Japanese Maples as much as we do. Younger trees are particularly vulnerable, whereas more established trees aren’t as affected by occasional grazing. You’ll want to protect small Japanese Maples from deer with a liquid spray or, preferably, a physical barrier. See our recent “Oh Deer!” blog post for more tips to keep your garden safe from deer.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call, email, or stop by the Nursery for more information. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Written by Olivia Round.