The magic of Asia comes into your garden with a picturesque maple tree. In order for this popular ornamental tree to unfold its floral magic perfectly, it depends on proper care. Do you still have questions about watering, fertilizing, cutting and wintering? Then read well-founded answers here.
How do I properly care for my slotted maple?
The ideal care for slot maple includes thorough watering 2-3 times a week, fertilizing the bed once with compost and horn shavings, occasional cutting for fast-growing varieties and winter protection for young plants with a layer of leaves and a fleece cover.
How do I water slotted maple correctly?
The root system of the slot maple is predominantly flat and close to the surface. Proper watering not only provides water, but also makes a valuable contribution to the beneficial deep growth of the roots. This is how it works:
- If it is dry, apply water directly to the root disc
- Water thoroughly 2 to 3 times a week instead of in small amounts every day
If you have slotted maple in the pot, let the water slowly run from the can spout onto the substrate until the first drops run out of the bottom opening. Only water again when the substrate surface is noticeably dry.
Does Japanese maple depend on regular fertilization?
In the bed, a single application of fertilizer covers the nutrient requirements. Add mature compost with horn shavings in autumn or spring and water again. Fertilize slotted maple in a pot every 4 weeks from April to September with a commercially available green plant fertilizer (€6.00 on Amazon) in liquid form.
Is cutting part of the care program?
Slow-growing slot maple varieties naturally develop a compact shape and do not tend to age. Cutting measures are rarely on the agenda here.
Fast-growing cultivars sometimes tend to grow sparingly and tolerate a beauty cut. The best time is in the transition from winter dormancy to the growing season. It is important to note that you limit pruning to one-year-old wood. An Acer palmatum is very reluctant to grow out of old wood.
When does winter protection make sense?
Slotted maple must gradually acquire stable winter hardiness. The wood in the bed is threatened by frost damage, especially during the first 5 years of growth. Before the onset of winter, cover the root disc with a 5 to 10 cm thick layer of leaves, secured with needle twigs. A breathable fleece hood protects the branches from the damaging combination of bitter frost and blazing sun.
Tip
All efforts to implement a competent care program will be in vain if you assign your maple tree an unsuitable location. The pivotal point for vital growth and an opulent foliage are sunny to partially shaded, wind-protected locations with sandy, humus-rich loam soil.
