What is the best food for this tree? Good old compost. Your typical crimson queen Japanese maple can flourish in USDA zones between 5 to 8. Greener leaves can withstand the heat, so it’s a better choice for countries in hotter climates. If your tree has more reddish leaves, they will be more prone to being burnt in hotter and dryer climates. The temperature factor depends on the color of the leaves. To keep the soil from being overwatered - spread some mulch around the base of the tree. However, once grown, you’ll need to water it once a week, more during the hotter seasons. When your plant is still a fresh sapling in the ground, water the soil around it whenever it dries. WaterĪ well-drained and moist soil is an answer to a healthy tree. While your tree might grow in your standard backyard soil, the growth rate will be much slower. Also, make sure the soil is moist and full of nutrients. The majority of these tree types prefer a more acidic soil. After all, it’s the foundation for your tree. You have to get the soil right right from the start. However, if you live in a colder area, you can give your plant more light. If you live in a warmer climate, ensure your plant gets from four to six hours of morning sunlight. You have to mix and match the amount of sunlight, depending on the climate in your area and the variety of your tree. However, you don’t need to keep an eye 24/7. If you want those vibrant colors every year, you must keep the major factors in check. Planting the tree is one thing, but caring for it is a long-term project. Place your potted plant where it could get some of that morning sunlight. Water the area and tidy up your workplace. Just enough to create a layer of protection. Put some mulch around the base of the tree. Fill in the empty space with soil/compost mix. Dig out a large hole to place the plant’s roots into the pot. Also, depending on the variety, mix in some sand, especially at the bottom. Mix up your planting soil with quality compost. Make sure there are holes on the bottom for water to drain away.
Choose a container that is spacy enough for your future goals.
Make sure to water your plant in its current container it came in. After all, when you play with dirt - stuff will get dirty. Prepare a workspace you don’t mind getting dirty. Since this variety of trees suits perfectly for your bonsai project, you might grow it in a container.