Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' (D)

Water

The Japanese Maple should be watered deeply but infrequently, ensuring that the soil is kept consistently moist but never waterlogged. In the first growing season, it's crucial to establish a strong root system, so water the plant every week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water. After establishment, reduce the frequency to every two to three weeks, depending on the weather conditions, with less water required during rainy periods and more during drought. In extremely hot summers, additional watering may be necessary to prevent stress. Always check the top 2 to 3 inches of soil for dryness before watering again.

Light

Japanese Maples prefer a spot with dappled sunlight or partial shade, especially in the afternoon when the sun is at its strongest. They can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but in hotter regions, protection from intense midday sun is essential to prevent leaf scorch.

Temperature

The Japanese Maple thrives in a temperature range of 60°F to 80°F, and it can tolerate a minimum temperature down to -20°F once fully established. However, sudden frosts after new leaves have developed in spring can damage the foliage. Ideally, provide protection from harsh winter winds and extreme summer heat.

Pruning

Prune Japanese Maples to remove dead or crossing branches and to shape the plant for aesthetic purposes, performing this task in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Annual light pruning is recommended, while more extensive shaping should be done infrequently to maintain the tree's natural form. Avoid heavy pruning as this can stimulate excessive growth that detracts from the tree's beauty.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Japanese Maple 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' thrives best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A mix composed of 1/3 peat moss, 1/3 pine bark, and 1/3 coarse sand or perlite is beneficial for both aeration and moisture retention, providing the roots with an ideal growing environment. Regular amending with organic compost can further enrich soil fertility for optimal growth.

Repotting

Japanese Maple 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' should be repotted every two to three years to ensure the root system has sufficient space to grow. Younger trees tend to grow faster and may need to be repotted more frequently, whereas mature trees can be repotted less often. It's best to repot in late winter or early spring, just before the growing season begins.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Maple 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to various humidity conditions typical of temperate climates. While specific humidity levels are not critical, providing a location with good air circulation and avoiding overly dry conditions is beneficial for the overall health of the plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow in bright, indirect light; keep away from drafts.

• Outdoor

  Plant in dappled shade, protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

The Japanese Maple 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' begins its life as a seed, which, when sown, will germinate in favorable conditions of moisture and temperature. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a young sapling, developing its characteristic deeply lobed, purple-red leaves that change throughout the seasons. As it matures, the small tree establishes a strong root system and a weeping form, with its branches gracefully arching downwards. This cultivar reaches maturity after several years, when it starts to produce small reddish-purple flowers in spring, followed by samaras, or winged seeds. These seeds are then dispersed by wind and, if they land in a suitable environment, can give rise to new plants. Throughout its life cycle, the Japanese Maple 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' may be pruned to maintain shape and size, and it will go dormant annually in colder climates during the winter months before resuming growth in the spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• For the Japanese Maple, specifically the 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' variety, the most popular method of propagation is through softwood cuttings taken during late spring to early summer. Cut a section of the stem about 4-6 inches (10-15 centimeters) long with at least two sets of leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, dip the cut end into a rooting hormone, and insert it into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite. Cover the cutting and pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and place it in indirect light. Roots typically develop in a few weeks, after which the cutting can gradually be acclimated to the outside environment.