Folio № 23 of 36 · in the garden since 2022
Bigleaf Maple
Acer macrophyllum
Large-leafed native maple, slower to ramify; best in larger sizes or naturalistic styles.
The year, as this species lives it
Thirteen phases. Touch any arc — the wheel remembers what each season asks.
Early Fall · Sep 1 – Sep 30 · happening now
- Gradually reduce watering frequency.
- Final feed of the season to build winter reserves.
- Structural wiring/pruning before leaf color onset.
- Optimal time for wiring with active sap.
- Encourage hardening of summer growth.
click another arc to travel the year →
The care sheet
The constants — what stays true in every season.
Full sun
Hardy species; prefers consistent sunlight.
Moderate
Avoid waterlogging; prefers well-drained soil.
Balanced
Feed monthly in growing season; reduce in late summer.
Structural in early spring, maintenance through summer
Hard prune before bud break to shape.
Spring or Autumn
Branches are brittle; wire when flexible.
Every 2-3 years
Use coarse mix; avoid overpotting.
Cuttings or seed
Seedling development takes time but worthwhile.
Fully hardy but mulch roots in extreme cold.
Water deeply and regularly in hot weather.
On the bench · 1
Every Bigleaf Maple in the garden, oldest hands first.
