Japanese maples are thirsty trees with shallow roots which is why it is important to know how to keep them hydrated before the summer heat arrives
Japanese maples have thirsty roots which means that knowing how to water them correctly before the summer sun starts blazing is crucial. As warmer days roll in, Japanese maples are prone to drying out rapidly, causing stress and wilting which can ruin their alluring foliage.
To ensure they thrive, Japanese maples typically require watering three times a week. However, May is the ideal time to prep the soil so you aren’t tied to them with a watering can over the coming months. Gardening gurus from Wayside Gardens have revealed an easy trick to keep your Japanese maples sufficiently hydrated: simply layer their soil with a generous spread of mulch.
The expert advised: “Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, extending out to the drip line. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool. Aim for a mulch layer about two to four inches thick, but avoid piling mulch against the trunk to prevent moisture-related diseases.”
READ MORE: ‘Very handy and lightweight’ cordless shears help keep hedges and lawn under control with ease
Mulching simply entails encasing the soil surrounding a plant with organic matter. This covering gradually decomposes, thereby aiding in moisture retention and supplementing the soil with nutrients, reports the Express.
Through mulching, the need to water Japanese maples is lessened as it traps moisture close to the roots, reducing strain on the trees. By acting as a barrier, mulching not only slows evaporation of water but also ensures the earth stays supple, allowing it to soak up more water rather than letting it slide away.
Mulching is a game-changer for your Japanese maple, not only ensuring it stays well-hydrated but also enriching the soil with nutrients and stifling weeds to promote the growth of stronger, healthier foliage.
For optimum hydration, wood chips and pine needles are top choices for mulching Japanese maples, while shredded pine bark serves as a slower-releasing nutrient provider to the soil.
Steer clear of stone-based mulches like pebbles, which fail to retain water, and be wary of fresh bark that can sap nitrogen – crucial for leaf growth – from the soil. It’s essential to leave a few inches bare around the trunk when applying mulch to prevent waterlogging and avoid fungal diseases.
With proper mulching, your Japanese maple should remain robust through the summer; however, vigilance for stress symptoms is key. The specialist said: “If leaves become dry, crispy, and brown, it’s a sign your tree may be dehydrated. Conversely, yellowing leaves or a soggy base might indicate overwatering.”
Should your Japanese maple falter due to the intense summer heat, consider relocating it to a more shaded spot in your garden, or introducing taller trees or plants nearby for long-term solar shielding.
