Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum
Quick Care Guide
Prune: Light pruning in late winter or early summer for shape and airflow
Sunlight: Partial shade preferred; protect from hot afternoon sun
Water: Weekly; keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
Fertilize: Feed in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Leaves: Delicate, lobed leaves with vibrant seasonal color
Flowers: Small red to purple flowers in spring (often inconspicuous)
Pruning
Japanese maples generally need minimal pruning, but selective trimming can enhance their natural shape and promote good airflow. The best time to prune is in late winter or early summer, avoiding periods of sap flow in early spring. Remove any dead, crossing, or crowded branches, and thin out dense areas to maintain the tree’s elegant structure. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the tree and ruin its natural form.
Watering
Consistent moisture is key for Japanese maples, especially during dry spells or high heat. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on soil conditions, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, but avoid piling mulch against the trunk.
Leaves
Japanese maple leaves are finely divided and deeply lobed, creating a delicate, lace-like appearance. They come in a variety of colors depending on the cultivar—ranging from deep red to bright green—often shifting to brilliant shades of red, orange, or yellow in autumn. The foliage is one of the most admired features of the tree.
Sunlight
Japanese maples thrive in partial shade, especially in regions with hot summers. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. While some cultivars tolerate full sun in cooler climates, too much direct sun—especially in the afternoon—can cause leaf scorch, particularly on red or variegated varieties. Shelter from wind and intense heat helps preserve delicate foliage.
Fertilization
Feed in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) to support new growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage leggy growth and diminish fall color. A second light application in late spring can benefit younger trees, but mature maples often need minimal feeding.
Flowers
Japanese maples produce small, reddish-purple flowers in spring, which are often subtle and easily overlooked among the foliage. While not showy, they add seasonal interest and may be followed by small, winged samaras (seeds) in late summer.