The Japanese maple

The Japanese maple is one of the most ideally suited deciduous trees for bonsai.  They are hardy, easy to train and grow well in pots.   The maple tree comes in a variety of colors and its very delicate leave structure makes an exquisite canopy.   Although maple trees are tough, they do require a fairly temperate climate and will not do well in tropical or hot zones.  Spring growth is also quite susceptible to damage by late frosts and protection must be a consideration for these types of trees.

The most popular variety of Japanese maple is the mountain maple.  This ornamental tree starts in spring with a growth of fine green foliage and by autumn develops a cast of bright reds and gold.  The Japanese red maple is known for its deep burgundy leaves and is another favorite.  A fast growing shade tree is the trident maple.  This species is known for large tree trunks and is a popular specimen for exposed root displays.    Maples do come in dwarf varieties, such as Kiyome, which are primarily used to show their dense foliage.  Almost any type of maple tree is a good candidate for bonsai.

Japanese maple trees are quite easy to maintain.  Maple bonsai tree care consists of a nitrogen fertilizer which is used during the high growth period in the spring and then tapered to lower dosages in summer and fall.  They do require constant watering and the soil should never be allowed to dry completely.   Repotting should only be done when the tree roots are totally pot bound which is normally every two to three years.  The ideal time to repot is when the buds are just beginning to break-out early in the spring.  The specially formulated akadama soil is preferred, but a mix of sand, bark and fine loam will do. 

The majority of tree cutting, trimming and training will be done in the spring when new growth is at its peak.  Pruning shoots to maintain the desired form is the basic technique that is used.  Leaf trimming is kept to a minimum since there is no real benefit.  Maple trees do have a second growth in early summer which requires more attention, but it is in no way as dramatic as the burst in spring.   During autumn the leaves will drop and in winter the tree will go dormant.  The maple tree is capable of withstanding winters without any special attention unless you are in a climate where temperatures are consistently below freezing.  In zones where winter temperatures are constantly freezing its best to move the tree to a protected area.

Japanese maples are a favorite among hobbyists and admirers alike.  Their constant change of color throughout the season is a display unto itself and is another reason why they are so popular.