Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Oridono-nishiki' (P/v)

Water

Japanese Maple should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Newly planted trees require more frequent watering, about once or twice a week, to help establish roots. Mature trees should be watered less frequently, roughly every two weeks. The amount of water depends on the size of the tree and the weather; an average recommendation would be to provide 10 to 15 gallons every two weeks during the growing season. Always adjust your watering schedule according to the rainfall and the season, reducing the amount in late fall to winter.

Light

Japanese Maples prefer a location with partial shade, especially in the hotter zones, to protect their delicate leaves from scorching sun. However, they can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. An ideal spot offers morning sun and afternoon shade, ensuring the tree receives sufficient light without the intensity of midday heat.

Temperature

Japanese Maples are hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures; they grow best in USDA zones 5 through 8. The ideal temperature range for these trees is between 60°F and 80°F. They can survive in temperatures as low as -10°F and tolerate summer peaks up to 90°F but may need protection from extreme heat or frost.

Pruning

Prune Japanese Maples primarily to remove dead or crossing branches and to maintain their shape. The best time for pruning is during the late winter or early spring before the sap starts flowing and the new leaves develop. Prune sparingly; once a year is often enough as these trees naturally have a pleasing shape.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Japanese Maple requires well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. A mix of loam, peat, and sharp sand or perlite is ideal, ensuring moisture retention and aeration.

Repotting

Japanese Maples should be repotted every two to three years to prevent root bound conditions and encourage healthy growth.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Maples prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to the typical outdoor humidity range in their growing zones.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright, indirect light and keep away from dry heat sources.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, protect from harsh winds, and mulch well.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Japanese Maple 'Oridono-nishiki' begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, ideally in a moist, well-draining soil environment. The seedling develops into a young tree, establishing a root system and producing its first leaves which are often variegated in this cultivar. As the tree grows, it experiences a period of vegetative growth each year with new leaves and stems, showcasing its distinctive pink, white, and green foliage. The tree reaches maturity in several years, at which point it can produce flowers, followed by the development of winged samaras (seed pods) which disperse in the wind, continuing the reproductive cycle. Each year, the tree undergoes a period of dormancy during the colder months, shedding its leaves and storing energy in its roots for the following spring's growth. Throughout its lifetime, which can span over a century if conditions are ideal, Japanese Maple 'Oridono-nishiki' undergoes repeated cycles of growth, reproduction, and dormancy, providing seasonal interest with its changing foliage and structure.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter-early spring

• The Japanese Maple 'Oridono-nishiki' is a striking variegated cultivar that is best propagated through grafting. Grafting is most successfully performed in late winter or early spring before the tree breaks dormancy. The most popular method is known as scion grafting, where a small branch, or scion, from the 'Oridono-nishiki' is joined to the rootstock of another Japanese maple that has a vigorous root system. The scion, which is usually about 2-6 inches (5-15 centimeters) long, is cut at an angle to expose a large surface area and then carefully matched to a similarly cut surface on the rootstock. The two are bound tightly with grafting tape or a similar material to hold them securely in place while the graft union heals, a process that can take several weeks to months depending on the conditions such as temperature and humidity. Grafting not only preserves the variegated characteristics of the 'Oridono-nishiki' but also ensures the resulting tree benefits from the hardiness and vigor of the rootstock.