An acer's delicate leaves are its biggest draw and its biggest vulnerability, scorching easily in wind, sun, or a late frost.
Acers (Japanese maples) are prized for delicate, colourful foliage that’s easily damaged — new growth scorches in cold spring winds and late frosts, and pruning cuts made while the sap is rising will bleed. They’re shallow-rooted, so container-grown plants dry out fast and need more frequent watering than their size suggests.
Sowing & growing calendar
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prune | Prune in January | Prune in December | ||||||||||
| Protect | Protect in April | Protect in May | ||||||||||
| Job | Job in June |
Care details
- Protect April – May
Shield young leaves from cold winds and late frosts — new acer growth scorches easily in spring.
- Job In June
Water container-grown acers well — they’re shallow-rooted and dry out fast in a pot.
- Prune December – January
Prune only while fully dormant, in late autumn or winter — cut in spring and the wound bleeds sap.
Growing tips & common problems
- Position out of direct, drying wind and harsh afternoon sun, especially for red and finely-cut leaf varieties.
- Water container-grown plants often — they're shallow-rooted and dry out far faster than their size suggests.
- Prune only in late autumn or winter while fully dormant; cuts made in spring bleed sap heavily.
Grows well with
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