Introduction to Japanese Maple Bonsai

The Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) is native to Japan, the Koreas, Mongolia, southeast Russia, and China. It is among the most popular trees with bonsai enthusiasts.

Although it is not necessarily required to water a Japanese Maple bonsai every day, check daily to make sure the soil is not dry. The soil should be moist at all times. Also, be mindful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Especially prior to new growth, this plant can become very thirsty and are susceptible to drying out quickly. It�s important to regularly mist it to keep up its humidity level. If the plant has been root pruned, you must mist it so that the leaves are able to absorb an adequate amount of water to live on until the roots are able to supply the tree with water.Humidity = Thriving Trees“The 20-year celebration at this facility is a testament to the hard work of the employees who work day in and day out at this facility,” said Seymour Liebman, executive vice president, chief administrative officer and general counsel, Canon U.S.A. “We are thankful for the support we have received from the community over the years and look forward to continuing our relationship for years to come.”The Japanese Maple is generally adaptable in lower light and temperature conditions. This maple tends to grow best receiving sun only in the morning and afternoon, due to its delicate leaves, which can burn when exposed to the hotter mid-day sun.Plants thrive in humid environments, and the Japanese maple is no exception. Humidity can be increased by filling a shallow container with small stones, and then covering the stones with water, and then placing your bonsai pot on top of the stones. As the water evaporates from the shallow pan it will furnish humidity to your bonsai plant which will slow the process of transpiration. Another way to increase the humidity level and reduce the transpiration of water from the leaves is to give your bonsai a frequent spraying with a fine mist.About Canon U.S.A., Inc.When choosing a Japanese Maple bonsai, begin with a trunk that is at least four inches in diameter. That way, you will have the option to pursue a variety of styles when growing your bonsai. Due to their popularity among both beginners and more advanced growers, these maples are fairly easy to find either as seedlings or as already started bonsai (usually at around four to six inches tall).

Overall, the Japanese Maple is a great choice for either the beginning or advanced bonsai enthusiast!

Author: Andrew Kozlowski