Japanese maple is a popular garden and container plant that impresses with its colorful leaves. We explain what problems Japanese maples have in very sunny, hot locations and how they can be protected from excessive sunlight.
Can Japanese maple tolerate sun and heat?
Most Japanese maple varieties do not tolerate high heat and direct sunlight. To protect the maple from heat and sunburn, it should be cultivated in partial shade, watered adequately and the soil that is as moist as possible should be used. However, some varieties tolerate sun and heat better, such as Osakazuki, Butterfly, Green Globe and Kagiri nishiki.
Can Japanese maple tolerate heat?
No, most varieties of Japanese mapledo not tolerate high heatIt is irrelevant where the tree is located: specimens cultivated in a pot are just as sensitive to heat as those that grow in the garden. Japanese maple bonsai should under no circumstances be placed in excessive heat. Some types of the plant, often known as Japanese maple (Acer palmatum), do not like direct sunlight, which is why a location in partial shade is the best choice.
What effects does excessive heat have on the Japanese maple?
If the Japanese maple is exposed to too much heat, this results inbrown leavesFirst, the tips of the leaves and the edges of the leaves usually change color, and later the brown color spreads to the entire leaf. Young plants in particular are prone to “sunburn” when exposed to strong sunlight and can be damaged. If you notice brown discoloration on the leaves of the Japanese maple, there could also be other reasons such as fungal diseases or waterlogging.
How can I protect the Japanese maple from heat?
To protect the Japanese maple from heat damage in the form of brown leaves, the following points should be considered:
- use as moist and fresh soil as possible
- Always water sufficiently, but avoid waterlogging of potted plants
- bestcultivate in partial shade
If extreme heat and sunlight cannot be prevented when trees are planted in the garden, a special shade fabric (€29.00 on Amazon) can provide at least a short-term remedy. Alternatively, a light-colored bed sheet or other large piece of fabric can be thrown over the maple.
Which varieties thrive in a sunny location?
Some varieties of Japanese maple canstand well in full sun, then their foliage becomes particularly intensely colored and shines in rich shades. However, it is important to ensure that the soil is sufficiently moist in very sunny locations. For example, the following varieties are less exposed to sun and heat than others:
- Osakazuki
- Butterfly
- Green Globe
- Kagiri nishiki
Tip
Provide water in a timely manner
Like all plants, the Japanese maple also enjoys enough water. It is best to water early in the morning or late in the evening if the water does not evaporate immediately in high heat. With potted plants, excess water must always be poured off after a short time to prevent possible root rot.
