Big leaf maple triple raft planting
Provenance
Grown from seed
Background
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Progression: Starter
About Big Leaf Maple 2
I had the idea to take a tiny big leaf maple and plant it as a raft in some fine media. This has been growing quite slowly and has very stunted leaves. Curious if it will take off or not.
Seasonal Care Guide
Late Dormancy
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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 brittleโuse 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 โ 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.