A change of location is considered the biggest challenge for a slotted maple tree. In order for the Asian ornamental tree to survive the strain he althy and happy, the right approach is important. This guide explains in detail when and how to successfully transplant an Acer palmatum.
How can I successfully transplant a slot maple?
To successfully transplant a slot maple (Acer palmatum), choose early spring as the time. Lift out the root ball with sufficient substrate, wrap it in a jute bag and plant the tree in the new location. Pruning the shoots and sufficient watering support adaptation.
Best time is in spring
If you don't pay close attention, you'll find a slotted maple tree in an unsuitable location. Loss of leaves, stunting and diseases are the inevitable results and can only be remedied by transplanting. Although symptoms appear in the middle of the growing season, please be patient until early spring. If you choose a date shortly before budding begins, a slot maple will usually be able to cope with the procedure without any damage.
How to transplant maple trees correctly – step-by-step instructions
An important premise for a successful change of location is to preserve as large a quantity of substrate as possible from the previous location. This is how you replant your slot maple in an exemplary manner:
- Cut off the root ball around the diameter of the crown
- Expand the cut area to a 5-10 cm wide trench
- Starting from this furrow, lift out the root ball with a digging fork and spade
Wrap the root ball immediately with a jute bag so that no valuable soil is lost during transport to the new location. Plant the slot maple while maintaining the previous planting depth. Ideally, fill the planting pit with a mix of excavated soil and rhododendron soil. A generous supply of water on the day of transplanting and in the following weeks ensures that the tree or shrub grows well.
Pruning completes the workflow
The appointment recommendation is based not least on the fact that transplanting trees always requires adequate pruning, which should ideally take place before budding begins. The aim of this measure is to compensate for the lost root mass. Cut the shoots back until the balance between root and branch volume is restored.
Tip
Regular transplanting is mandatory for a slotted maple in a pot. If root strands grow out of the opening in the ground or push up through the substrate, please repot the tree into a larger pot. The best time for the measure is at the end of the leafless period, as soon as the first leaves sprout.
