3 Tips For Caring For A Japanese Maple
Trees add a great deal of beauty and value to your home. Of course, proper care is essential for reaping the benefits of planting trees in your landscape design. If you are a homeowner enjoying the elegant beauty of a Japanese Maple, caring for this tree is even more important because of the intense beauty it provides. With this guide, you will learn a few simple tips to protect the look and health of the Japanese Maple tree.
Be Patient
Most homeowners or landscapers will plant young trees in yards. While they still add definition, texture, and color throughout the year, the Japanese Maple will take more time to grow compared to other trees.
On average, Japanese Maples will grow in height 12" to 24" each year. You may not even notice this medium growth rate. In some instances, you may decide to remove the tree if it does not appear to be growing. However, you should remain patient because the tree will provide attractive foliage and intense color during the various seasons.
Water Properly
After planting, you should water your tree every few days to ensure it remains moist. This will help implement the roots into the soil.
Once established, water the tree in periods of drought. Be sure to soak the tree base and surrounding mulch.
Freshen Mulch
The mulch around your Japanese Maple is important. In the summer, the mulch protects the tree's roots from the intense heat. In the winter, it protects the roots from freezing temperatures.
Because of its essential role, you should freshen up the mulch seasonally. Surround the base of your tree with new mulch during the fall and spring.
Spring Fertilizing
Avoid fertilizing the tree within the first year of planting, since the tree is too young for the harsh fertilizing chemicals.
In the spring season after the last frost, apply an organic fertilizer to your tree. Be sure to choose a slow-release fertilizer, which spreads the nutrients over the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
Prune Perfectly
The end of the summer or early fall are the best times to prune your tree because sap will not run out of the limbs after cutting. Trim away any dead limbs and cut off browning foliage. Cut off small shoots that are growing out of the tree base, as well.
Proper tree trimming will give the tree is classic shape while removing any decaying or diseased growth. This will ensure your tree is capable of surviving the winter so it can grow healthier in the spring season.