Japanese Maple trees are among the most desired Acer palmatum due to their unparalleled show of foliage and special structure.  Their beautiful colors and varied forms make them people's favorites, the onesones in which gardeners take so much interest.

Why Grow Japanese Maple Trees?

Japanese Maples are renowned for and favored because of their unique, lacy leaves that take on a different color each season and thus provide interest in every season. It can be the bright greens and reds of spring and summer or the bright oranges and yellows of fall. They give an appeal that interests a season altogether.

Japanese Maples have more than 1,000 cultivars in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colorations. Their adaptability makes them suitable for gardens of any scale, whether patted on the patio or even the centerpiece in large landscapes. They are also quite long-lived trees.

Choosing the Perfect Japanese Maple

First comes selecting the right variety. Varieties to consider:

Upright Varieties

These include varieties like Bloodgood, which is very deep red, and Emperor 1, which is bright crimson. These varieties grow taller and can be perfect for large gardens or open landscape areas.

Weeping Varieties

Cascading types, such as Crimson Queen, are great for small gardens or containers. Their drooping branches add a touch of grace.

Dwarf Varieties

Compacted varieties like Koto no Ito develop thread-like leaves and work extremely well for bonsai and smaller landscapes. Ensure the mature size and growth habit of the selected cultivar is compatible with site conditions, space and climate.

Planting Your Japanese Maple

Planting your maple tree depends on :

1. Location Matters

Japanese Maples prefer partial shade, particularly in warmer cities. Morning sun and afternoon shade will protect them from scorching and delicate leaves. They can tolerate a lot of sun in cooler regions.

2. Prepare the Soil

Japanese maples like well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5, hence nearly acidic. If your natural soil is heavy clay or really sandy, add compost so it drains better. It will help retain nutrition. Keep your gardening supplies with you before you start digging.

3. Planting Your Japanese Maple

Place it in a hole about twice as wide, but no deeper than the root ball. It should be backfilled to remove air pockets. Gently take the tree out of its container and tease the roots to promote growth. Plant the tree in the hole, so the crown root is at the level of the soil surface.

Care of Japanese Maples

  • Water your Japanese maple deeply once or twice a week during its first year to ensure it continually receives moisture. Rainfall isn’t enough for new plants. 
  • Mulch around the base of the tree to maintain soil temperature and prevent development of weeds.
  • Feed only a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that hits your Japanese maple in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.

Common Problems and Solutions 

  • Japanese Maples require very little care but sometimes may experience a couple of problems. 
  • Browning leaves from excessive heat and drought. Water and give the tree some shade when the afternoon sun gets hot.
  • When already infested, the plant is sprayed with an insecticidal soap or neem oil, or a homemade spray. 
  • Air circulation will be excellent, and irrigation will be done properly. Verticillium wilt prevents this. 

Avoid wetting the leaves. Follow some watering tips for healthy happy plants.

A Lasting Addition to Your Garden

Japanese Maples are not just plants; they are, in fact, a living art. Their various beautiful shapes and color changes can turn any outdoor space into a tranquil retreat with so much ease. The beauty of the Japanese Maples is enjoyed well beyond generations. So, take that step today. Buy a Japanese Maple from Eureka Farms and plant it in your yard and let its beauty and serenity be the soul of your landscape.

How to Buy Plants From Eureka Farms?

We are now licensed for a full-scale nursery with an extensive inventory of landscaping trees, fruit trees, palm trees, and the largest houseplant collection. If you want to enhance your curb appeal or turn your porch into a class act, Eureka Farms can guide you on how to do it all, from topiary trees and hedges to everything in between. You can rest assured that we will handle the shipment with the utmost care across the country so that when your plants reach you, they will be as fresh as new. These indoor plants require less upkeep, improve home air cleanliness, brighten moods, and provide essential touches of the natural world to the work-from-home office. Happy Planting!