Leaf-cutting can be carried out in mid-summer, this results in smaller leaves, better ramification and stronger autumn leaf colour. For trees that require short internodes, buds can be pinched out leaving 2 new opposing leaves as soon as they are visible, this will produce fine, twiggy growth with short internodes and also promote back-budding. Pruning Unless extension is required to form new areas of foliage or branches, cut new growth back to one or two pairs of leaves following bursts of growth through the growing season. Repotting should stop when maples begin to extend new shoots. Maples that come into leaf early in the year (especially Kiyohime) can be repotted later, even when their first pair of leaves have opened. Repotting Every 2 to 5 years as buds extend in Spring. Withdrawing some early fertilising produces very short internodes and finer growth required on ‘finished’ or developed trees.Īfter hardening off, feed fortnightly with a balanced feed. Watering Acer palmatum are very thirsty prior to new flushes of growth in Spring and Summer and will need additional water at these times.įeeding Feed weekly with high nitrogen fertiliser as soon as leafbuds open in spring to encourage strong growth and to strengthen leaves against sun and wind scorch. In winter, protect against frosts below -10☌. However good light in spring and autumn aides vigour and leaf-colour, as well as leading to smaller leaves. Position Out of direct sunlight and strong winds throughout the year to protect leaves against sun and wind scorch. ![]() Japanese Maple bonsai by Harry Harrington The main problem with looking after Acer Palmatum is keeping the very thin leaves free of blemishes as they are easily burnt by the sun and wind. Flowers and key-shaped fruit tend to be insignificant and easily overlooked. Varieties with a green summer leaf colour tend to be more robust whilst red-leaved varieties (though arguably more beautiful) lack the same quantities of chlorophyll in their leaves and are weaker. Acer palmatum after pruningĪcross the range of the species there is much variation in growth habit, leaf size, leaf shape and spring, summer and autumn colour. They are very popular for use as bonsai due to their ready ability to respond to most bonsai techniques, beautiful foliage and graceful branch structure. There are at present hundreds of varieties in cultivation. Be sure to use fresh potting soil during this process.If you have never done root pruning, it's best to consult a nursery professional who can give you some tips and advice.Acer palmatum are deciduous small trees and shrubs, with opposing odd-numbered (anything from 5-11) pointed leaves, native to Japan, China and Korea. Late February is the best time, right before the weather begins to warm up. Another sign that it’s time to root prune is that the top of the tree leaves are crispy and unhealthy looking. Root prune your container maples when they are so root bound that water doesn't soak through the pot. ![]() To reduce the potential for spreading disease, clean your pruners with alcohol after each cut, especially if cutting dead or diseased branches. Cut out any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, then prune to shape. January during a dry spell can also be a good time for pruning and seeing the tree’s core structure. June through August is good for pruning aesthetically, since you can see the leaves and the overall shape of the tree. The damp environment may make some maples more susceptible to bacterial and fungal diseases. Try not to prune your maples during the rainy season. Pruning is an important part of maintaining a container japanese maple.
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