In autumn, the Japanese maple shines in the most beautiful red, yellow or orange shades and brings cheerful splashes of color to the garden just before the gray winter. The rather slow-growing tree can even be planted in the smallest garden, especially if you have chosen a dwarf variety. Japanese maple is very popular because of its particularly filigree leaves. But no matter which Japanese maple you choose: Most species and varieties are very hardy even in our latitudes.

Snow and frost cannot harm the Japanese maple

Japanese maple comes from cool-temperate climate zones

In terms of climate, Japan is very complex. While a cool, temperate climate with long, snowy winters and short, mild summers prevails in the north, subtropical and even tropical zones can be found in the south. Most Japanese maples come from the north, with the Japanese maple (Acer japonicum) in particular being found on the islands of Hokkaido and Honshu. For this reason, most of the Japanese maples offered in this country are used to cold climates and are therefore very hardy even in our latitudes.

Protect young plants and potted maples from frost

Planted specimens therefore do not need any extra winter protection, with one exception: these are young Japanese maples. Additional protection makes sense, especially if they were just planted this year. This can be designed very easily, usually a thick layer of leaves or straw or a few spruce branches in the root area are sufficient. Since it is a flat root, these are of course particularly sensitive. Also make sure to plant Japanese maples in spring if possible - then the trees have enough time to grow.

Protect potted maples

Japanese maples kept in pots should also be protected from frost:

  • Place the planter against a house wall or wall.
  • The location should be light and sheltered from the wind.
  • Place the bucket on a wooden or styrofoam base.
  • Wrap the planter with fleece or raffia.
  • Cover the substrate with leaves, straw or spruce branches.

The right care in winter

Japanese maple also needs water in winter, which is why you should water tub specimens from time to time - but only on frost-free days and when the substrate is dry. Furthermore, pruning should not be carried out in winter, Japanese maples tolerate such measures very poorly. Fertilization should also be avoided between August and March.

tips

In the spring, the sprouting should be protected from late frosts by means of fleece or similar.

Category:

Trees