The Japanese Acer, also known as the Japanese Maple, is a popular addition to any garden – and one way to keep it looking its best is to add a particular ingredient to the soil
Japanese Acers, also known as Japanese Maples, are highly treasured for their resplendent hues and unique silhouette, making them a garden favourite. To maintain its splendour, proper nurturing is essential – and garden expert suggest there are techniques to preserve the Acer’s vivid, striking colours throughout the year.
The iconic crimson shade of many Japanese Acers, resembling a rich red wine burgundy tone, is widely admired. However, when an Acer tree begins to weaken or perish, its signature hue can diminish and fade.
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According to insights from UrbanGardensWeb, these elegant maples may encounter myriad issues ranging from aphid and insect invasions to damage from intense direct sunlight, or excessive moisture resulting in waterlogged roots that could suffocate the plant.
Yet, continued vibrancy and health of an Acer can be ensured by the application of ‘good quality fertiliser’. It advises: “Japanese maples benefit from good quality granular fertiliser.
Mulch and apply fertiliser in spring to help the tree during its growth period. Avoid feeding in autumn, as this can encourage it to grow at the wrong time of year and adversely affect its course.”
Another influence on your Japanese Acer’s colour intensity may be its position in the garden, plus the levels of sunshine or shade it receives during different times of the day, reports the Express.
According to the experts at MrMaple.Com: “A Japanese Maple may not be showing red colour, even if it’s known to be a red cultivar.
“Japanese Maples that are still in their sapling stage may not show prominent red colours, or may even be more green than red.
“Environmental factors also play a huge part in the colour of the leaves of your Japanese Maple. If your tree is in full sun, you may see a spike of green colour in late summer due to the excess chlorophyll being stored in the plant.
“Optimal conditions to promote vivid colours is early morning sun and late day shade. Cultivar selection is also key if you’re looking for a certain colour. Red Dragon & Emperor 1 are known to hold their red colour much better than other cultivars.”
