Oaktree – the ideal choice for Japanese Acers
In addition to an impressive and comprehensive range of plants
and trees, Oaktree specialises in Japanese Acers – also known as
Maples – with over 60 varieties in stock.
The term Japanese Acer refers to a large group of very ornamental
shrubs and small trees named Acer Palmatum, Japonicum and
Shirasawanum. Most are bushy or shaped like small trees however,
those with Dissectum in the name have finely divided leaves and
mostly grow into spreading, mushroom shaped bushes.
Providing an unrivalled and spectacular display for most of the
year, they vary from reds and pinks in Spring; to soft yellow, green
or red to purple foliage in Summer; and dynamic reds, oranges and
yellows in Autumn.
The right soil and site
The secret to success with these plants is a well drained root run
and moist soil in summer. If the soil is very wet and heavy, they
can be also grown in containers (see below) or raised beds. Although
preferring acidic soil, they will flourish in neutral to slightly
alkaline conditions.
Dappled shade combined with well drained, moist soil is the ideal
but the plants will mostly tolerate full sun in a sheltered position
– full sun and wind combined tends to cause scorching round the
edges of the leaves in Summer. Keeping the soil moist is even more
important in full sun conditions. Containers can be moved to protect
plants from the hot sun.
Careful planting
A little care when planting will be rewarded by these long living
plants. The hole needs to be much wider and deeper than the root
ball with any hard soil broken up. Lots of ericaceous compost should
be added along with plenty of coarse grit or sharp sand if the
drainage is poor. Plants are regularly potted on at Oaktree so the
roots should not need teasing out. The depth should be similar to
the pot depth with a slight mound if the soil is heavy or wet.
Great in pots
Acers are great in pots as they look good all year retaining bark
colour and shape even when the leaves have dropped in winter –
particularly Dissectums which suit the extra height. Potting on
should be gradual adding fresh ericaceous compost every couple of
years when the plants are young. Drainage holes should be kept
clear. Even when re-potting is not due, it is useful to replace some
of the old compost in Spring along with a feed. Watering over the
foliage is to be avoided especially on sunny days as this can scorch
the leaves.
Shaping up
A light pruning in Spring or Summer will retain the shape if
required, otherwise they simply need the dead wood removing once or
twice a year.
Oaktree provides detailed, informative labels on all plants and
the experienced team is always on hand to offer help and advice.
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