Help with dying Japanese Maple
- Thread starter Kwatson
- Start date
BrightsideB
Omono
I think it’s health could be attributed to the sand it’s in. Not really good to repot a maple that has already leafed out. The leaves are constantly needing water to keep from drying.
If I got it for free. I’d probably repot it into better soil without cutting any roots and making sure they do not dry during the repot. And keep it in 100% shade for at least a week for it to acclimate to the new soil. And for the leaves to require the least amount of water by keeping it in the shade. Than transition to just morning sun. And see how well it does. The leaves will not burn in the shade but can dry out. The direct sun requires constant water from the roots.
If I got it for free. I’d probably repot it into better soil without cutting any roots and making sure they do not dry during the repot. And keep it in 100% shade for at least a week for it to acclimate to the new soil. And for the leaves to require the least amount of water by keeping it in the shade. Than transition to just morning sun. And see how well it does. The leaves will not burn in the shade but can dry out. The direct sun requires constant water from the roots.
BrightsideB
Omono
Usually under decks on the ground is the coolest place out of the sun. Or at least on the ground out of the sun or direct wind. Wind can dry leaves out as well.
Gabler
Masterpiece
I would play it safe and give it two weeks in the shade, but otherwise, agreed.
Before you do anything, though, tip the pot on its side and gently slide the rootball out, so you can post a picture of the roots. I suspect the roots aren't well established in that pot, and the soil will fall away, so be prepared for that.
Before you do anything, though, tip the pot on its side and gently slide the rootball out, so you can post a picture of the roots. I suspect the roots aren't well established in that pot, and the soil will fall away, so be prepared for that.
Gabler
Masterpiece
The likely culprit is the soil it's planted in. A good soil provides the roots both with ample water and with air. If it's too wet or too dry, or if it's too fine and compacted, the roots will suffer. In the ground, a tree can grow its roots toward the resources it needs. In a pot, we have to provide the right balance of water and air right where the tree is growing. Also, it's counterintuitive, but the more shallow the pot you are using, the worse it will drain excess water, so a more granular soil is needed to maximize the available air. That's why nursery pots are taller than they are wide, it offers more room for error. Proper drainage is paramount.
Kwatson
Seed
Ok great, thank you everyone. Any suggestions on certain potting soils or is any brand/type labeled ‘bonsai’ appropriate. Also, it sounds like this guy should be stored outside (in the shade) instead of in the house…?
BrightsideB
Omono
Outside for sure. Inside will die. I opt for substrate with a majority pumice or just pure pumice. I mix my own. Not sure if you have anyone local you can get some. Online will take time to get to you.
I think if you can only get potting soil it’d be better than what you have. Planting in a colander or pond basket would work better if you use potting soil. Lowes usually has pond baskets for sale. It’ll help keep the potting soil from getting to soggy and help with oxygen getting to the roots. Along with good drainage. Most herbs and vegetables are ok in soggy potting soil for various reason but tree’s can suffer.
I think if you can only get potting soil it’d be better than what you have. Planting in a colander or pond basket would work better if you use potting soil. Lowes usually has pond baskets for sale. It’ll help keep the potting soil from getting to soggy and help with oxygen getting to the roots. Along with good drainage. Most herbs and vegetables are ok in soggy potting soil for various reason but tree’s can suffer.
SeanS
Omono
- Messages
- 1,548
- Reaction score
- 5,102
- USDA Zone
- 9b
Please add your location to your profile. The hemisphere you’re in will direct our advice. It would be looking unhealthy because it’s about to go dormant for winter.
I do agree though that the sand it’s in looks horrendous
I do agree though that the sand it’s in looks horrendous
Gabler
Masterpiece
That is a very good point. I tend to think locally, and sometimes I forget to ask if OP is upside down.
Wires_Guy_wires
Imperial Masterpiece
Does the pot have any holes at the bottom?
Kwatson
Seed
Yes, there are holes. I’ll plan on repotting with better soil and keep in the shade for a couple weeks and see what happens.
Betula1
Yamadori
Nb ,When people recommend keeping in it shade that doesnt mean in total darkness!
Somewhere out of the wind and sheltered from direct sun,eg against a north facing wall or fence would be good.
Judging by the lack of weeds and moss and the looseness of the sand in the pot I'd say its only just been planted in that pot so be very careful if you decide to check the roots, as the whole rootball could fall apart when you tip it out of the pot.
Somewhere out of the wind and sheltered from direct sun,eg against a north facing wall or fence would be good.
Judging by the lack of weeds and moss and the looseness of the sand in the pot I'd say its only just been planted in that pot so be very careful if you decide to check the roots, as the whole rootball could fall apart when you tip it out of the pot.
