Japanese Maple / Small Sized Trees

The Dapple Designs Expert Says:

Acer palmatum is a small, deciduous tree grown for its autumn colour and beautiful foliage. Many acers grow extremely slowly and are perfect for smaller gardens. Japanese Maples do best in sandy, slightly acidic soils, with plenty of organic matter. They do not do too well in very alkaline soils. Japanese maples will grow best in a sheltered position. Red and purple leaved cultivars need some sun to develop fully their dark hues. Most acers have shallow fibrous root systems that resent competition from other plants, so ensure that they are not too crowded. Acer palmatum is best pruned when fully dormant in mid winter. However, pruning is still best kept to a minimum so to keep its naturally graceful shape.