browsing plants: Japanese maples

Japanese maples have been cultivated in Japan for centuries and in temperate areas around the world since the 1800s. They provide a striking focal point. Whether in the garden bed or in a large container, there are hundreds of Japanese maple varieties that come in various sizes with a large assortment of leaf shapes and colors that range from shades of green to orange, red, purple, and variegated.

Japanese maples are understory trees hardy in zones 5-8. Heat is a consideration for its effect on leaf color, causing many purple or red-leaved varieties to turn green in summer.

Providing the right amount of light is a balancing act. Too much sun can damage delicate leaves, but too little, and some of the more colorful varieties will take on a greenish tone — still nice, but not the brilliant reds and purples that are ideal in some cultivars. For best color, most maples need a location with part sun preferably in the less hot morning hours.

Most Japanese maples grow at a slow to moderate rate of 1 to 2 feet per year. They typically grow fastest when they are young and slow down as they reach maturity. Planting them in a spot where they are happy and caring for them well helps maximize their growth rate. If you want an established look right from the start, plant an older, larger maple rather than a young one that may take years to mature.

Many of the smaller varieties are excellent in containers. Japanese maples “self stunt,” meaning their top growth will decrease when their roots are confined. When planting in a container, it’s a good idea to use small to medium varieties or dwarf forms.

Water well at planting and regularly going forward. Although they can endure periodic dry spells once established, avoid extremes and water regularly during drought. Maples need mulch to protect their roots from heat and cold, and to hold moisture in place, especially for those in containers. Keep mulch away from the trunk.

Low-nitrogen fertilizer is great for spring feeding (N-15 or lower), but should not be applied after May to maximize fall color and winterizing. It’s best fertilize Japanese maples beginning with their second growing season.

Container trees should be fed more often, and heeled in to a thick mulch in a protected area each winter. It is best to root prune trees in containers every few years.

Japanese maples offer plenty of diversity, and we offer a selection of our favorites.

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