If the Japanese maple has dead branches in the garden or in the pot and looks as if it is continuing to dry out, you need to act quickly. We show which measures can be used to save the tree in many cases so that it can then sprout again.
How do you save a Japanese maple tree with dead branches?
Dead branches on Japanese maple can be caused by the fungal infection Verticillium wilt. To save the tree, the affected branches should be cut back generously, the root area should be mulched, watered sufficiently and waterlogging should be avoided. Full sun locations should be avoided.
How do you recognize dead branches on the Japanese maple?
When he althy, the Japanese maple, which is available in many different varieties, delights with leaves in the most beautiful, bright colors.
But does it havedry leaves, which usually initially appear on individual branches, one can assume that these are a sign that the respective branches have died. Discoloration is also a characteristic of dead branches.
What is the reason for the dead branches?
In most cases, the reason for the branches dying isVerticillium wilt, a fungal infection to which Japanese maples are particularly susceptible. As a result of this fungal attack, enough water no longer reaches the tree through the roots and the Acer palmatum's supply of nutrients is no longer guaranteed - the plant dries up, so to speak.
How harmful are dead branches for the Japanese maple?
The dead branches themselves are not harmful to the Japanese maple, but the verticillium wilt can, if not remedied early, cause the entire treeto dieIn order for the Japanese maple to survive the fungal infection, the following points must be observed:
- a generous pruning of the dead branches (including those that only have a few dry leaves)
- mulch the root area
- Water enough, but definitely avoid waterlogging
- If possible, avoid placing the tree in full sun
Can you remove the dead branches without harming the tree?
If you pay attention to a few things when cutting, the Japanese maple will beno harm:
- cut the branches as close to the trunk as possible
- keep the cut surface as small as possible so that only a minimal cut is created that can heal quickly
- If several branches have to be cut off, you should disinfect the secateurs in between by heating them with a lighter
In addition, it is important not to cut further than the nearest he althy, “living” branch so that the Japanese maple does not lose too much sap.
Do chemical agents help with dead branches?
There areno chemical agentsthat can help if you want to combat dead branches or gray branches on the Japanese maple. Only cutting off the dead branches can help.
Tip
Do not compost under any circumstances
Dead branches of a Japanese maple affected by verticillium wilt should never be thrown into the compost, but should be disposed of with household waste. Otherwise, the harmful fungus can spread further and be later distributed in the garden with the compost.
