This Japanese ornamental plant with a long tradition is particularly appreciated for its continuous and spectacular transformations that follow the rhythm of the seasons: from the moment of the tender spring buds to the lush splendor of its foliage during the summer, up to the magnificent fiery red of its leaves in autumn.
No less interesting is when, after the leaves have fallen, it shows its elegant silhouette and the very fine and unmistakable branching.
It is a robust species, generally able to resist cold as well as heat. It is long-lived as a bonsai cultivated essence, moreover it is easy to shape and responds well to cultivation techniques.
Acer palmatum is prized for its spectacular seasonal transformations.
Acer palmatum is grown in many varieties, including kiyohime, deshojo, seigen, and is definitely a tree that cannot be missed in a collection.
Exposure.
As already mentioned it is a plant that is quite resistant to both heat and cold.
However, in order not to damage its splendid foliage, it is good to protect it from the most intense summer sun rays, while it should not be taken away from a total exposure to the sun in autumn, as this will intensify the coloring of the foliage.
In winter, although it tolerates low temperatures well, it is better to protect the root system from frosts.
Watering.
The common rule of watering, which indicates to water every time the soil is dry to the touch, is ideal in the case of the Maple, considering, however, that in the hottest periods and in the presence of strong wind, it is necessary to intervene more frequently.
Often, in fact, in these cases the soil risks to remain completely dry. It is also good to keep in mind that both the lack and the excess of water can create serious imbalances to the plant.
More precisely, the lack of water causes the leaves to droop and a stunted growth; the excess causes a blackening of the leaves in the apical part.
Potting.
The transplant should be done in the spring when the buds swell, but before the appearance of the leaves; annually on the younger plants, every 2/3 years on the more mature ones.the ideal compound is 60% akadama + 30% ready soil + 10% pozzolana
Pruning.
The best time to make a selective pruning of the branches of the Maple tree is the period in which there is the fall of the leaves in autumn (about 15/20 days), because it is possible to observe more clearly the complete structure, also do not risk loss of sap since the plant is at rest.
They can also be pruned at the vegetative resumption but with less success.
Especially the big branches should not be pruned during the growth period. Even the application of healing paste would not be able to stop the release of sap.
As far as pruning is concerned, it is good to keep in mind that maple buds appear in pairs, one on each side of the branch.
By selecting the buds and properly pruning the branches, the new sprouting will respect the direction of the chosen bud.
Following a good pattern, based on the direction of the main branch, the secondary and tertiary branches should not cross, but form a dense, complete horizontal network.
Once the foliage is formed, which is achieved in about 5 years, every 4-5 years it is necessary to prune the tree vigorously to maintain its size and pattern.
Picking.
It is done on the specimens already formed, in spring, to avoid the extension of new shoots. The topping will have to continue during the whole period of growth.
On the specimens in formation is adopted the technique of defoliation, approximately every 2 years in May / June, removing all or part of the leaves, but keeping the petiole, in order to increase the fine branching.
Winding.
It should be noted that due to the delicate bark of the Maple tree, shaping is achieved mainly through pruning, so the winding should be applied only in cases of absolute necessity, in the period of least activity, to avoid affecting the elegant bark.
The wire, due to the rapid growth rate of this species, should never remain for more than two three months.
Fertilization.
From April to early July, fertilize every 15 days with Bonsan Organic Liquid Fertilizer together with Bonsan Stimulating Fertilizer, or once a month with Bonsan Hanagokoro Organic Solid Fertilizer plus Bonsan Stimulating Fertilizer. From late August through October, fertilize every 15 days with Bonsan Organic Liquid Fertilizer or Bonsan Hanagokoro Organic Solid Fertilizer. Apply Bonsan Organic Solid Fertilizer Hanagokoro twice a year (in autumn and at the end of winter); 3-4 times a year Bonsan Mineral Curative Solution should also be used. To stimulate rooting, use Bonsan Fluid Organic Mineral Fertilizer with B vitamins instead of Bonsan Organic Liquid Fertilizer.
Cure.
The pathogens most often encountered on this species are aphids, red spider mite and powdery mildew.
Attacks generally occur between spring and early fall. In case of aphids it is necessary to apply a specific aphicide every 10 days, making at least 3 interventions.
To prevent the formation of the red spider mite, it is good to keep the plant in a ventilated environment: in case of attack intervene with acaricide.
This Japanese ornamental plant with a long tradition is particularly appreciated for its continuous and spectacular transformations which follow the rhythm of the seasons.
The Acer palmatum is certainly one of the most beautiful trees to grow as Bonsai. Its beautiful five-pointed leaves, which change color depending on the season, give this plant a charm and elegance difficult to find in other essences.
ReplyDeleteWe must remember, however, that such beauty is not taken for granted, but must be cultivated and cared for with constant attention and dedication.
The biggest problem for this wonder of nature is the "abandonment syndrome": especially in summer, if it is forgotten for a few days it can curl and dry out its leaves, or even let itself die from dehydration. Therefore, if we decide to adopt one, we must be ready to give it lots of attention and love.
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