Japanese Maple Acer palmatum Dissectum Viride Group

Water

Laceleaf Japanese Maples, including the Acer palmatum Dissectum Viride Group, prefer consistently moist soil and should not be allowed to dry out completely. During the growing season, they may need watering once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. It's essential to water deeply and thoroughly, providing about 10-15 gallons of water per week for established trees. Adjust the amount based on rainfall, more during dry spells and less when it's rainy. Ensure the water penetrates the soil to reach the root zone.

Light

Laceleaf Japanese Maples require a spot that offers partial shade, especially to protect them from the harsh afternoon sun. They thrive under the dappled light of taller trees or in an area that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Protecting them from strong winds will also help preserve their delicate foliage.

Temperature

Laceleaf Japanese Maples perform best in a temperature range where summers are not extremely hot and winter temperatures don't fall below -10 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand a brief period of cold down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure can be harmful. Ideally, daytime temperatures should be moderately warm and nights cool.

Pruning

Pruning Laceleaf Japanese Maples is mainly for shaping and removing dead or damaged branches, enhancing their graceful habit. Prune during the dormant season, preferably late winter before new growth starts. Thinning cuts should be made to keep the branching structure open, typically once a year or less frequently as the tree matures.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Japanese Maple thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of about 5.5 to 6.5. The best soil mix can be created using one part each of peat moss, pine bark, and coarse sand or perlite, promoting aeration and proper moisture retention for the roots.

Repotting

Japanese Maples in containers should be repotted every 2-4 years to prevent root binding and to replenish nutrients in the soil. It's best to repot in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Maples prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to different humidity conditions typical of temperate climates. They generally do well outdoors where the natural environment helps regulate humidity around them.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Japanese Maple in bright, indirect light, and ensure good airflow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in dappled shade, shelter from strong winds, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Acer palmatum Dissectum Viride Group, commonly known as the Laceleaf Japanese Maple, begins with germination from seed; under favorable conditions, these seeds sprout and establish a root system. Seedlings then enter a juvenile vegetative stage, where they rapidly develop stems and dissected, lace-like leaves characteristic of the cultivar, utilizing sunlight for photosynthesis and growth. After a few years, the sapling matures into an adult tree and starts the reproductive stage, producing flowers that are often inconspicuous, followed by the development of samaras, which are winged seeds that facilitate wind dispersal. Upon reaching maturity, the Laceleaf Japanese Maple enters a period of annual growth and reproduction, where it experiences seasonal cycles of leaf growth in the spring, seed maturation in the summer, and leaf senescence in the fall, with leaves changing to vibrant colors before dropping. This deciduous tree continues this cycle for many years, with some specimens living over a century if grown under optimal conditions and with proper care. Eventually, senescence of the entire tree occurs, leading to reduced vigor and, finally, the death of the organism.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter-early spring

• The Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Dissectum Viride Group' is commonly propagated through softwood cuttings. The most popular method involves taking cuttings in the late spring or early summer when the new growth is partially mature but still supple. Cut a piece of stem around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, making sure it contains at least two or three sets of leaves. The lower leaves are then removed and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or a well-draining potting soil. To maintain high humidity, a plastic bag or a propagator can be placed over the pot, and it should be kept in indirect sunlight until roots have established, after which it can be transplanted into the garden or a larger pot.