- Climate in the Japanese homeland is similar to that of Central Europe
- Young and potted plants need light winter protection
Acer palmatum or Japanese maple is a very popular tree for the garden or for a bucket culture. Native to East Asia, the ornamental tree offers gardeners and enthusiasts a few benefits. The plant grows rather slowly and also remains quite small, but has a high optical value due to the beautiful foliage and the strong autumn colors. In addition, the Japanese maple - whether green or red maple - is comparatively easy to care for and robust, and the small tree is also hardy in this country.
Japanese maple copes well with snow and cold
Climate in the Japanese homeland is similar to that of Central Europe
Distant Japan, home of the distinctive Japanese maple, is larger than Germany and also extends over an area of around 3,000 kilometers and thus over several climatic zones. Hokkaido and Honshu are among the four main islands of the archipelago and together make up around 82 percent of the country's area. On both islands, winters tend to be long and cold, while summers are short and mild. A subarctic climate prevails on Hokkaido, while Honshu is in a temperate climate zone. Both islands are home to the Japanese maples, which are particularly widespread in the mountains. Thus, these small trees are naturally used to a rather cool climate and are also considered hardy in Central Europe.
Young and potted plants need light winter protection
While older, planted specimens usually do not need additional winter protection, young and potted maples should be provided with one. Young plants, especially if they have been at their location for less than four years, should be covered with leaves and/or brushwood. This measure prevents the roots, which are only very shallow under the ground, from freezing to death. For the same reason, the roots of Japanese maples cultivated in pots must also be protected, preferably with gardening fleece or a similar covering. The planter is placed on an insulating base such as wood or polystyrene.
Japanese maple bonsai are best wintered frost-free
On the other hand, Japanese maple bonsai planted in shallow pots should not be left outside at all, but should be kept frost-free and cool in the house or greenhouse. The location does not have to be bright, after all it is a deciduous tree species.
tips
However, the actual winter hardiness of the plants depends primarily on their location. The Japanese maple prefers a sunny to light, partially shaded location, which should be in a sheltered place if possible - above all, the tree does not get drafts or wind at all.