The Acer rubrum, which is widespread in North America and is often also referred to as Canadian red maple, is ideal for a bonsai culture. Unfortunately, this maple species is rarely raised as a bonsai in our latitudes, and such plants are only rarely offered in specialist shops.
The red maple, like the Japanese fan maple, is excellent as a bonsai
design options
Like almost all maples, the red maple can also be used for any desired design or style. Whether as a solitary, as a multiple trunk or even as a bonsai forest - the North American always cuts a fine figure. Especially in autumn, when the leaves turn the strong red hue that gives it its name.
location and substrate
The red maple, known as "soft maple" in its homeland, prefers a sunny to light, partially shaded location. However, this should definitely be protected from the wind, because this maple species does not tolerate draughts. Neither does heat, by the way, because red maple is very sensitive to high temperatures. The substrate should be permeable, loose, moist and rich in nutrients.
watering and fertilizing
Red maple should be kept nice and evenly moist, although it doesn't mind the occasional dry spell. However, you should absolutely avoid waterlogging, because the weakened tree likes to react to this with a fungal infection, for example with the dreaded Verticillium wilt. Fertilize the bonsai with an organic liquid fertilizer about once a month between April and August.
cutting and wiring
When growing a maple - regardless of the type and variety - the right time for pruning is essential. For example, the red maple should be cut back in spring before the leaves sprout, because at a later point in time the sap pressure is too high and the tree could bleed heavily and lose shoots due to drying out. Cutting should be avoided in autumn and winter, because the risk of fungal infection is very high at this time of year. You can wire after the leaves have been cut in June, but then remove the wire again before the winter break.
repot
Young maples are ideally repotted about every two to three years, each time receiving a new planter and fresh substrate. From the age of about ten years, repotting every five years is sufficient. You should only place your maple bonsai in a shallow bowl when it has already developed into a beautiful tree and the trunk has reached a healthy size. Remember that every time you transplant, a root cut must be done at the same time.
wintering
Although the Canadian red maple from its homeland is quite used to frosty temperatures and is therefore hardy in our latitudes, potted specimens should still receive sufficient winter protection. Maples that are in flat bonsai pots, on the other hand, should not overwinter outdoors - they are better off in a frost-free but cool place. Temperatures not exceeding six degrees Celsius are ideal.
tips
The red maple can be propagated very well via seedlings - the fruits ripen shortly after the leaves sprout - as well as via cuttings. Mossing off has also proven its worth with maple bonsai.