Japanese maples are beautiful but delicate trees that require special care, and if you are not careful in summer, you could accidentally end up killing them with kindness
Although it may seem sensible to fertilise your garden in the summer to promote lush foliage and vibrant flowers, doing so can cause significant harm to Japanese maples. These stunning trees are extremely sensitive to heat, and fertilising during hot weather can scorch their roots, weakening or even killing them.
According to Michael Francis of Japanese Maples and Conifers, June is too late to fertilise these trees, but there’s an alternative method to keep them healthy and strong. He said: “Mulching is a vital practice for retaining soil moisture and regulating soil temperature. One of the most effective ways to ensure your Japanese Maples thrive during the hottest months is through proper mulching.”
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Mulching is a simple gardening technique that involves adding a layer of material to the soil around plants to protect and nourish them. Unlike fertiliser, mulch is a slow-release solution that takes time to break down, posing no risk to Japanese maples.
The primary reason to mulch your Acer trees is that mulch retains a significant amount of moisture and reduces evaporation, keeping Japanese maples hydrated even in scorching temperatures. Japanese maples have shallow roots that tend to dry out quickly in the summer, and mulching helps them conserve water, enabling them to continue growing without stress.
If you neglect to mulch Japanese maples, they’re at risk of suffering from the sweltering heat, which can result in their leaves turning brown, burning, and potentially falling off, reports the Express.
This could mean that instead of a stunning tree with vibrant red leaves come autumn, you’ll be left with a bare and burnt-looking plant fighting for survival.
If you don’t already have some lying around your garden, mulch can be picked up relatively cheaply. You can pick up a litre bag of Verve Bark Chippings from B&Q for just £12.
How to properly mulch a Japanese maple tree during the summer months
Mulch is packed with moisture which is beneficial for the soil, but an excess near the trunk can suffocate roots and foster mould, pests, or diseases.
Gardening expert Michael advised: “Apply a one to two-inch layer of organic mulch, such as pine bark or pine straw, around the base of the tree.”
He also warned: “Avoid piling the mulch too thickly, as this can lead to poor air circulation and moisture build up.”
Japanese maples thrive with pine bark and straw because they are durable, promote better airflow, and help maintain soil moisture, all of which are crucial for nurturing this sensitive species.
After mulching, it’s important to water your Acer generously, then continue to monitor it over the summer. With proper care, it should flourish with beautiful blooms when autumn rolls around in a few months.