All Species > Acer buergerianum

Trident Maple

Deciduous broadleaf with excellent ramification potential; fast healer; ideal for refinement.

Seasonal Care Guide

Early Summer (Jun 1 – Jun 30)

  • Watering: Water deeply and regularly; watch under hot sun.
  • Fertilization: Broad-spectrum feeding every 2–3 weeks.
  • Pruning: Consider partial defoliation if leaves are too large; only if tree is healthy.
  • Wiring: Minor wiring adjustments before cambium hardens.
  • Defoliation: Partial defoliation (2nd leafing) can refine foliage scale.
  • Pests Disease: Monitor aphids and scale; treat as needed.
  • Summer Protection: Provide light afternoon shade during heat waves.

Mid Summer (Jul 1 – Aug 10)

  • Watering: High-frequency watering; ensure no stress during heat.
  • Fertilization: Reduce nitrogen, focus on potassium if flower/fruit desired.
  • Pruning: Pinch new growth; wait until fall for structural changes.
  • Pests Disease: Spider mites can appear—use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
  • Summer Protection: Shield roots from extreme heat if uninsulated pot.

Late Summer (Aug 11 – Aug 31)

  • Watering: Maintain consistent moisture as growth begins to slow.
  • Fertilization: Back off nitrogen; apply phosphorus-rich formula.

Placement & Seasonal Notes

  • Placement: Full sun to partial shade
  • Notes: Provide afternoon shade in very hot climates.
  • Winter: Protect roots from deep freeze in containers.
  • Summer: Ensure consistent moisture during peak heat.

Leaf Traits

  • Persistence: Deciduous
  • Form: Broadleaf

Watering & Fertilization

  • Watering: Moderate
  • Notes: Let topsoil dry slightly between waterings.
  • Season: Spring → Autumn
  • Fertilization: Balanced
  • Notes: Use low-nitrogen in late summer to harden growth.

Training Techniques

  • Wiring: Spring or Autumn
  • Notes: Check wire monthly - trunks thicken fast.
  • Pruning: Structural in early spring, maintenance through summer
  • Notes: Leaf prune in midsummer to promote second flush.
  • Repotting: Every 2 - 3 years
  • Notes: Repot in early spring before bud break.

Propagation

  • Method: Cuttings or seed
  • Notes: Air layering also effective for mature material.

Zone 8b Considerations

Protect roots if temps < 20 F