Big Leaf Maple 1 – Mossy Spot

Trunk chop big leaf maple

Provenance

Gift from Jason Balfor at PSBA Eastside study group

This was growing quite a bit after the trunk chop, but it got a bad case of sunburn and never recovered.

Seasonal Care Guide

Watering: Keep soil lightly moist to prevent desiccation during root activation.
Pruning: Perform final structural cuts before bud swell; avoid heavy pruning.
Wiring: Safe to wire before buds open, but wood is brittle—use caution.
Pests Disease: Clear debris to reduce overwintering pests.
Winter Protection: Provide root insulation; watch for late freezes.
Wound Management: Seal larger pruning cuts to reduce cold damage.

Species Overview

Large-leafed native maple, slower to ramify; best in larger sizes or naturalistic styles.

Leaf Persistence: Deciduous

Leaf Form: Broadleaf

Watering: Moderate

Watering Notes: Avoid waterlogging; prefers well-drained soil.

Watering Season: Spring → Autumn

Fertilization: Balanced

Fertilization Notes: Feed monthly in growing season; reduce in late summer.

Wiring: Spring or Autumn

Wiring Notes: Branches are brittle; wire when flexible.

Pruning: Structural in early spring, maintenance through summer

Pruning Notes: Hard prune before bud break to shape.

Repotting: Every 2-3 years

Repotting Notes: Use coarse mix; avoid overpotting.

Propagation: Cuttings or seed

Propagation Notes: Seedling development takes time but worthwhile.

Zone 8b: Protect roots if temps < 20 F

August 1, 2023

Other, Died

Died
May 21, 2023

Observation

Took some photos after it was underwatered and in the hot courtyard during a hot spell. Hope it makes it. We'll see.