Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Shin-deshojo' (P)

Water

The Japanese Maple, specifically the 'Shin-deshojo' variety, needs regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. During the growing season, it may require water once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the root zone; this typically means using around 1-2 gallons per week for a young tree, but mature trees might need more. The exact amount can vary based on soil type and temperature. During the winter months, reduce watering as the tree goes dormant and its water requirements decrease.

Light

Japanese Maples, including the 'Shin-deshojo', thrive best in a spot with dappled or partial shade. Direct sunlight can be tolerated especially when the tree is well-watered, but to protect the vibrant red leaves of the 'Shin-deshojo' from scorching, it is advised to provide afternoon shade. An eastern exposure, receiving morning sun and afternoon shade, is often ideal for optimal leaf coloration and health.

Temperature

The Japanese Maple 'Shin-deshojo' is hardy to colder temperatures and can survive minimum winter temperatures down to -10 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but it prefers a temperate climate. The ideal temperature range for robust growth and health lies between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Protection from extreme cold and harsh winds is beneficial to prevent damage to this ornamental tree.

Pruning

Pruning Japanese Maple 'Shin-deshojo' is essential for maintaining its shape, health, and to encourage more vibrant foliage. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Thin out the canopy to allow light into the center of the tree, but prune sparingly as excessive cutting can lead to a weak structure. The best time to shape the tree for aesthetic purposes is during this dormant period.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Japanese Maple thrives in well-draining, acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0). A mix of loamy soil, peat moss, and perlite or well-rotted pine bark promotes healthy growth.

Repotting

Japanese Maple should be repotted every 2-3 years in early spring, before the growing season starts, to prevent root constriction and ensure continued health.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Maple prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to the ambient humidity found in most garden environments without needing special care.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Bright, indirect light with cool temperatures suits indoor Japanese Maple.

• Outdoor

  Provide dappled shade, shelter from strong winds, and regular watering.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Acer palmatum 'Shin-deshojo', commonly known as Japanese Maple, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in favorable conditions of moisture and temperature, usually in spring. After germination, the seedling emerges, establishing itself with a root system and a shoot that will develop into a trunk and branches. In its juvenile phase, the tree spends several years developing a robust root system, sturdy trunk, and branching structure, growing more each year with the proper balance of sunlight, water, and nutrients. The tree reaches maturity in several more years, capable of flowering and producing its own seeds; the deeply lobed leaves are initially bright red in spring, transitioning to green in summer, then to fiery colors in the fall before leaf drop. Throughout its life, the Japanese Maple will undergo seasonal changes, with growth in the spring and summer and a period of dormancy in the winter when it conserves energy. The life span of this tree can be many decades, even over a century in optimal conditions, during which time it may face various environmental stresses from pests, diseases, and weather but with proper care can continue to thrive and reproduce.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early spring

• The Japanese maple 'Shin-deshojo' is commonly propagated through grafting, which is a popular method owing to its ability to ensure the offspring retain the same characteristics as the parent plant. Grafting is typically performed during the dormant season in late winter to early spring. In this process, a stem from the 'Shin-deshojo' with at least one bud is joined to a rootstock of another maple that has been grown specifically for this purpose. The union between the scion (the 'Shin-deshojo' stem) and the rootstock is carefully wrapped and sealed to prevent drying out and to foster the tissues of the two parts to grow together. It is essential to maintain proper temperature and humidity levels to ensure the graft takes successfully. After some weeks, when the graft has taken and is growing well, it can then be planted out or potted on to grow to a saleable size.