Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum
- Deciduous
- Broadleaf
- Partial shade to full sun
Highly refined deciduous tree; delicate branching and strong seasonal appeal; widely used in bonsai.
Zone 8b notes
Protect roots if temps < 20 F
Care profile
Placement
Partial shade to full sun
Protect from hot afternoon sun to avoid leaf burn.
Watering
High
Never allow to dry out completely.
Fertilization
Balanced
Avoid high-nitrogen after midsummer.
Wiring
Spring or Autumn
Use guy wires for older wood to reduce scarring.
Pruning
Structural in early spring, maintenance through summer
Pinch new shoots to maintain shape.
Repotting
Every 2-3 years
Repot just as buds begin to swell.
Propagation
Cuttings or seed
Cuttings root easily with hormone.
Winter notes
Protect fine branches from late frost.
Summer notes
Mist foliage to counteract dry air.
Current phase
Early Summer- Watering
- Deep water regularly—pots warm up quickly in heat.
- Fertilization
- Continue balanced feed every 2 weeks.
- Pruning
- If leaf size becomes excessive, consider partial defoliation.
- Wiring
- Minor wiring for refinement before tissue hardens.
- Defoliation
- Partial defoliation after first flush can reduce leaf size.
- Pests Disease
- Watch for mites; treat with horticultural oil if needed.
- Summer Protection
- Provide afternoon shade during heatwaves.
