Water Japanese maples regularly, especially during the hot, windy weather of July and August. You may stimulate unwanted growth at the wrong time of year. The opposite is also true, do not give the trees limited water and then dramatically increase the water. The trees may struggle and the leaves may either dry up or burn. Do not give the trees a lot of water for a while and then drastically reduce the amount of water. They can survive on limited water or with plentiful water, just as long as it is applied consis- tently. Japanese maples do not have any particular, or special water requirements, other than consistency. Japanese maples flourish in the same growing conditions as Rhododendrons and Azaleas. Do not apply any liquid fertilizers directly to the leaves, it will burn them. A monthly application of a soluble, acid-type fertilizer, from May through August, will also help keep the roots growing strong. Fertilize Japanese maples once a year, in the early spring, with the same type of fertilizer that you use for rhododendrons, azaleas or other acid-loving plants. Lates too much growth and makes the tree more ‘leggy’ and weak. Japanese maples do not need a lot of fertilizer. High alkaline soil conditions prevent Japanese maples from surviving in some conditions that the tree would otherwise tolerate such as ‘full sun’ areas, windy areas, or wet areas. High alkaline soil conditions prevent the roots from absorb- ing nutrients and water quickly enough to satisfy their needs, so the trees often show signs of leaf scorch even when the soil is kept moist. Again, don’t rely on sprinklers to water your tree the first summer. Give it 5 to 10 gallons of water each time you water, not just a cup or two. After the first week, water your tree a least once a week with a hose. Make sure that you water it with a hose and not just let the sprinklers water it for you. Water your tree every day the first week. It is better to plant your tree too shallow than too deep.įertilize your new tree every two weeks for the first two months with Root Starter. Keep the graft at ground level, or a little above the ground. Don’t plant your Japanese maple too deep. This fertilizer contains Mycorrhizae and other beneficial bacteria that really help Japanese maples flourish in your soil. Mix 20% to 30% Acid Planting Mix with the soil you remove from the hole, along with one cup of Dr. Dig your hole at least twice as large as the rootball. Here are 10 great maple trees to consider for brilliant fall color.Prepare your soil properly before you plant and you will not have as many problems in the future.

Never fear: A single year of muted hues doesn't mean the spectacular display won't return. In years with unusual sun or temperature patterns, the color palette may be altered. Optimal fall foliage is dependent upon sunny days and crisp nights at the beginning of autumn. The intensity of color can be lessened due to extreme summer heat and drought. Even relatively consistent cultivars are at the mercy of the weather. Remember, though, that fall foliage color for any tree is based on many factors, including fall precipitation and temperatures.

In certain parts of the country, the brilliant yellow, orange, and red hues of fall maples in native forests are legendary, and you can bring this fall display into your home landscape by carefully selecting species and cultivars suited to your needs. Yet, no trees in eastern North America are as closely associated with fall foliage as maple trees.

Landscaping enthusiasts have many options for achieving colorful yards in autumn.

The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.

Soil type maple tree