One of the most popular Bonsai subjects, there are hundreds of varieties of Japanese Maples. Many have unique care needs and characteristics, and some are not well suited for Bonsai. The standard Acer Palmatum is a vigorous and popular species. Many JM's are prized for their small leaves, varied colors throughout the year, and capabilities for finely ramified canopies.
Children:Protect the root system from sustained freezing temperatures. Move trees into an unheated garage, shed, or cold frame.
Young Japanese Maples are incredibly vigorous. Repot them every single year to prevent them from becoming severely root-bound.
Pinch out the central growth tip of fresh shoots down to the first pair of leaves. This stops long leggy nodes from ruining the silhouette.
Pinch out the central growth tip of fresh shoots down to the first pair of leaves. This stops long leggy nodes from ruining the silhouette.
You can take remove a branch but this can cause a burst of new growth. Do this in Summer after the Spring flush to avoid long internodes in the new shoots.
Standard baseline rule: Water thoroughly when the topsoil looks slightly dry. Never let the rootball dry out completely.