My Trees > Big Leaf Maple 1

Acer macrophyllum

Big Leaf Maple 1

Trunk chop big leaf maple

Provenance

Gift from Jason Balfor at PSBA Eastside study group

Background

Estimated Origin: March 2015
Training Since: March 2018
Acquired: March 17, 2023
Died: August 1, 2023
Progression: Starter

Tree Details

Exhibition Ready: No

About Big Leaf Maple 1

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

Care Log

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.

Seasonal Care Guide

Early Summer (Jun 1 – Jun 30)

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.

Mid Summer (Jul 1 – Aug 10)

Watering: Monitor daily; ensure no drought stress.
Fertilization: Taper nitrogen; hold feed during hottest weeks.
Pruning: Pinch back soft spring growth; wait until fall for structure.
Pests Disease: Check for powdery mildew in humid weather.
Summer Protection: Ensure root ball doesn’t overheat—shade or pot insulation.

Late Summer (Aug 11 – Aug 31)

Watering: Maintain consistent moisture as growth slows.
Fertilization: Apply phosphorus high feed to support root health.

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

Placement & Seasonal Notes

Placement: Full sun
Placement Notes: Hardy species; prefers consistent sunlight.
Winter Notes: Fully hardy but mulch roots in extreme cold.
Summer Notes: Water deeply and regularly in hot weather.