The maple tree, also known as the maple, is one of the most attractive and versatile species that can be included in a garden. From large specimens such as the Autumn Blaze or the Matador Maple™ to the ornamental bonsai versions of the Japanese maple (Acer palmatum), all varieties share something in common: they provide Visual beauty, vibrant hues in autumn and a structure that beautifies any natural or urban space.
But as with all plant species, each type of maple has its own characteristics. their own care requirementsSome are more resilient and grow quickly, while others need extra pampering and even protection from the sun or cold temperatures. To ensure your maple tree grows healthy and strong, we've prepared this detailed and practical guide with everything you need to know about its location, watering, pruning, transplanting, diseases, reproduction and much more.
What kind of maple tree do you have?
Before delving into their care, it's important to identify which variety we're talking about. Although they all belong to the genus Acer, they differ quite a bit in size, shape or strength:
- Autumn blaze: a hybrid between the red and silver maple. It is characterized by a rapid growth, large size and spectacular autumn colors.
- Japanese maple (Acer palmatum): ideal for bonsai, small gardens or ornamental decoration. It has a slower growth, delicate leaves and a wide variety of cultivars in red or green tones.
- Matador Maple™: another hybrid variety, very resistant, with visually striking autumn foliage.
- Sugar maple (Acer): is the one that produces the famous maple syrup. A robust, deciduous tree, native to North America.
Where to plant a maple tree?
Choose the correct location It is essential. Although most maples tolerate both sun and partial shade, it is important to understand What variety it is and what climate is there in your area?.
Large maples like Autumn Blaze or Matador™ grow best in full sun, although they can tolerate some partial shade. It's important to provide enough space for their canopy, which can exceed 12 meters in diameter. Avoid planting them near structures or power lines.
Japanese maples prefer semi-shaded areas., especially in summer. Intense sunlight can burn their leaves, especially varieties with fine or purple foliage. They also appreciate locations sheltered from the wind.
In bonsai, it is best to keep them outdoors all year round, avoiding sudden changes in location, since They resent it if you move them frequentlyIf you want to know more about the ideal location, check out our maple tree care guide.
Ideal soil type
Soil is a crucial factor in the development of maple trees. Generally speaking, They prefer slightly acidic, well-drained soils rich in organic matter..
If the soil is clayey or too alkaline, it can cause problems such as chlorosis, an iron deficiency that causes the leaves to turn yellow. This can be corrected by using specific iron chelates, although the ideal is to add compost, peat or perlite to improve the pH.
In bonsai, the most common is to use mixtures such as Akadama, pumice and a little peat or mulchA good formula is 60% mulch, 20% peat, and 20% coarse sand, ensuring high drainage capacity to prevent waterlogging.
How to Properly Water a Maple Tree
Maples need regular watering, but without excesses that cause water accumulation in the roots.
- Autumn Blaze and Matador™: For the first few years, they require about 2,5 cm of water per week. Once established, they can tolerate some drought, but it's best to water them during hot summers.
- Japanese maple: It needs a constant supply of water to maintain its fragility. It suffers greatly from drought and hot weather, especially if potted as a bonsai. Water thoroughly and only when the substrate begins to dry out on the surface.
Avoid watering during frost or if the soil is already wet. Use watering cans with fine holesNever spray leaves unless you do so with a fungicide treatment and under controlled conditions.
Subscription: when and how to do it
Fertilization varies depending on the condition and type of tree:
- In young trees Nitrogen-rich fertilizers are recommended to encourage rapid growth and trunk development.
- In adult specimens or formed bonsais, balanced or low nitrogen fertilizer should be used to avoid long internodes and promote more compact branches.
For Japanese maple bonsai, you can use organic fertilizers. Fertilize between spring and fall, never in winter or immediately after repotting.
Pruning and maintaining the maple tree
Pruning serves several purposes: Improve structure, remove dead branches, strengthen growth and control size.
Autumn Blaze and Matador™: Prune in winter or early spring. Simply remove crossed, damaged, or branches that compromise the tree's shape. It's important not to overcut, as these fast-growing trees can develop weak branch unions.
Japanese maple bonsai: In addition to pruning in autumn or after the leaves have fallen, pinched during the summer to reinforce fine branching. You can also partially defoliate in summer to reduce the size of the foliage. Don't perform drastic pruning if your tree is not healthy.
Transplant and change of location
Japanese maple bonsai requires transplant every 1-2 years if it is young and every 3-5 years in adult specimens. The appropriate time is at the beginning of spring, just before it begins to sprout.
During this process, carefully analyze the roots: cut off any damaged ones, control the root-to-crown ratio (leaving at least 30% more roots than branches) and use new substrates, never reused.
For large maples planted in the ground, transplanting is not as common, but it is advisable to avoid areas with poor drainage or extreme sun exposure.
Wiring and training
Wiring is most commonly used in bonsai to shape the tree. It is important to do this when there are no leaves, preferably in winter or early spring.
Use paper-covered aluminum wire to protect the bark. The Japanese maple's thin branches are extremely sensitive and easily damaged, so work gently.
Do not leave the wire on for more than a few months. rapid growth can cause it to become embedded in the bark, leaving permanent marks.
Common pests and diseases
Although they are fairly hardy trees, maples can be affected by various pests:
- Aphids: They concentrate on tender shoots. They are easy to treat with specific products.
- Gall mite: produces red bumps on the leaves. It is harmless, but unsightly.
- Verticillium: a fungus that attacks the vascular system. It can dry out entire branches. Once present, it is difficult to eradicate. Prevent with disinfected tools and avoid excess moisture.
- Root fungus: They appear due to waterlogging. They prevent the absorption of nutrients and can kill the tree.
To avoid these problems, make sure you water only when necessary, do not wet the leaves and apply preventive fungicide treatments in spring and autumn.
Maple multiplication and reproduction
Maples multiply in several ways depending on the species:
- Seeds: Unreliable for hybrid varieties. Best harvested fresh in autumn and sown in spring after cold stratification.
- Branch cuttings: In spring or summer. Use root stimulators and maintain constant moisture.
- Aerial layering: ideal for preserving specific genetic characteristics. It is carried out in spring.
- Root cuttings: cutting pieces of about 10 cm and planting them horizontally.
In bonsai, air layering is widely used to obtain controlled shapes and avoid long growth periods.
Pots and container selection
Japanese maple bonsai trees need pots that match their shapeThe most recommended are oval or round glazed pots, especially if the leaves are colorful. They should be frost-resistant and have good drainage.
Dark or very deep containers are not recommended. flat container will allow the nebari (base of the roots) to stand out more visually.
Most popular maple varieties
There are more than 250 cultivars of Japanese maple. Some of the most popular for gardening and bonsai are:
- dissection: finely divided leaves, very decorative.
- blood good: Deep purple leaves, sun resistant.
- Katsura: leaves that turn orange and have a caramel aroma.
- osakazuki: spectacular red color in autumn.
- Hishigashira: dense spiral leaves, ideal for compact bonsai.
As for hybrids, both the Autumn Blaze and the Matador™ are ideal for those looking for a majestic, low-maintenance tree with spectacular colors and does not require extensive gardening knowledge.
Maple trees, in any form, are an excellent choice for decorating gardens, parks, or even terraces. Although each variety has its secrets, with proper placement, irrigation control, judicious pruning, and attention to pests, These trees can give you years of intense beautyWhether it's its summer shade, its fall color, or its elegant winter silhouette, the maple tree is always worth nurturing.
