How to plant and care for Japanese maple trees
If you’re after a tree that brings the “wow” factor to your garden or balcony, then Japanese maple might be what you’re looking for. This showstopper’s stunning leaves light up any outdoor space. Whether you’re planting one in a small courtyard or as a statement piece in a larger garden, the key to success lies in a little TLC.
Here’s everything you need to know about Japanese maples, from choosing the right type to what your tree needs to thrive.
Top 5 tips for growing Japanese maple trees
- Japanese maples aren’t too fussy, but give them slightly acidic, well-draining soil and protect them from winds and harsh afternoon sun for a happy tree
- Get your maple in the ground in autumn or early spring when the chance of frost has passed
- Add volcanic rock or grit to aerate the soil and mulch to protect the roots
- Maple are thirsty trees, especially when they’ve just been planted or if they’re being grown in pots Water deeply during dry spells
- Don’t go crazy with the shears. You only need to prune to tidy up dead and crossing branches
Popular Japanese maple varieties
No matter your style, there’s a Japanese maple to suit any taste. While their flowers might seem unremarkable, the Japanese maple’s real appeal lies in its ever-changing leaves. From season to season, the maple’s leaves put on a show, changing from green to deep red, to gold, and even pink!
Here are some standout varieties to consider:
- Orange Dream: Leaves go from yellow with orange edges in spring to lime green in summer, finishing in brilliant red in autumn.
- Osakasuki: Shifts from soft pink in spring to olive green in summer, to fiery red in autumn.
- Shindeshojo: Great for growing in pots, with fire-engine red leaves.
- Katsura: Yellow leaves with red edges in spring and a mix of red, orange, and yellow in autumn.
- Sango Kaku: Aka, the coral-bark maple, this tree stands out with coral-red bark.
- Butterfly: Small but mighty, this compact tree has green leaves edged in pink and cream.
When to plant a Japanese maple
Like most trees, Japanese maples like being planted in autumn. The soil is still warm from summer, so the tree has a nice cosy spot to establish its roots before getting to work (growing) in spring.
If you miss the autumn window, never fear. Early spring works too. Just avoid planting in the intense heat of summer and if you’re still expecting frosty weather. Young maples don’t like sudden temperature drops.
Where to plant Japanese maples in your garden
To help your Japanese maple thrive, give it what it knows. Mimic the trees natural environment by popping it into slightly acidic, well-draining soils. If you’ve got heavy clay soil, mix in some Scotts Osmocote® Rose, Gardenia, Azalea & Camellia Mix or stick to pots.
For the best results:
- Light: Japanese maples are sun-seekers, but don’t love intense afternoon sun, which can scorch their leaves.
- Shelter: They’re not fans of wild winds. Pop your tree near a hedge or a in a cozy corner of your garden to keep it safe.
How to plant Japanese maple in your garden
Ready to plant? Here’s what to do:
- Dig a wide, shallow hole: Japanese maple roots spread sideways rather than down, so give them plenty of room to spread out
- Prep the soil: Mix your garden soil with an acidic soil mix and some volcanic rock or grit for aeration.
- Place the tree: Pop your Japanese maple upright in the hole. Make sure the spot where the trunk meets the roots is at ground level.
- Water: Fill the hole with soil and water to help the roots settle into their new home.
Growing Japanese maples in pots in Australia
Working with a smaller space? Japanese maples work great in pots too. Here’s how to plant one in a pot:
- Go for a large pot: Choose a pot at least 50 cm wide and deep. Drainage holes are non-negotiable.
- Prep the soil: Use a mix of acidic compost, volcanic grit, and a high-quality planting soil.
- Plant the tree: Pop the tree upright and add soil.
- Water and position: Water, then park the pot in a sunny or partially shaded spot, safe from wild winds.
What to plant with a Japanese maple
Buddy up your Japanese maple with plants that like the same things. Try acid-loving plants like azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias. Or add ferns for a lush, layered look.
For something more zen, pair your potted Japanese maple with bamboo or moss.
Caring for Japanese maples
Once they’re in the ground, Japanese maples are pretty low maintenance. They don’t need a lot. But a little TLC doesn’t hurt. To help your maple thrive:
- Water: Newly planted Japanese maples regularly, especially in spring or when it’s warm.
- Mulch: Around the bottom of the tree to keep your soil moist, reduce weeds, and protect the roots from hot or cold weather.
- Prune: Only if you want a specific shape. Otherwise, it’s not really needed. If you are going to give your maple a trim, do it at the end of winter before it starts growing in spring.
- Feed: With a fertiliser made for trees and shrubs, like this slow-release fertiliser.
Repotting potted Japanese maples
Potted Japanese maples should be re-homed in a larger pot every couple of years as their roots can get a little cramped. If you can’t repot it, just swap out the top layer of soil with fresh compost give it a boost.
Common diseases and how to prevent them
Japanese maples are pretty tough, but you still might find yourself dealing with a pesky pest or two:
- Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease infects the roots and causes discoloured leaves and dodgy growth. Sadly, there’s no cure, so prevent it by keeping your soil in top condition with compost.
- Root rot: Caused by soggy soil. This is why good drainage is essential.
- Scale insects and aphids: Give your tree regular check-ups and keep an eye out for scale insects, aphids, or spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal sprays or natural options like horticultural oils.
Frequently asked questions about Japanese maple plant care
How long does Japanese maple take to grow
Depending on the type, about 30 to 60cm a year.
Can Japanese maple grow indoors
Yep! Although the conditions need to be just right. That includes giving them enough light, which can be tricky indoors.
How to prune Japanese maple
Japanese maples don’t need trimming unless you want to keep a specific shape. If you want to prune, trim dead and crossing branches at the end of winter before new growth starts. Use sharp clean cutting tools and always cut above the point where branches attach to the trunk.
