Jooni
Japanese maple
1 Species
Species
Fertilizing
During the growing season from spring to autumn, feed your Japanese Maple bonsai weekly with a balanced organic fertilizer that contains equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Start with a weaker mixture in early spring when new leaves are tender, gradually increasing strength as leaves mature. In fall, switch to a lower nitrogen fertilizer to help prepare the tree for winter dormancy. Avoid fertilizing during winter when the tree is resting. Take care not to over-fertilize, as excessive nitrogen can cause uncontrolled leaf growth and damage the roots.
Be particularly mindful of fertilizer strength with young plants - while they benefit from regular feeding to encourage strong growth, they can be more sensitive to fertilizer burn. Always follow package instructions carefully and err on the side of less rather than more.
Placement
Your Japanese Maple bonsai requires careful placement to thrive. Position it in a bright location with morning sun and afternoon shade, as direct summer sunlight can damage the delicate leaves. The ideal spot provides good air circulation while protecting from strong winds that can dry out the foliage. In winter, while the tree is frost hardy, protect it from temperatures below 15°F (-10°C) by moving it to a sheltered location or cold frame.
During summer, be especially vigilant when temperatures rise above 85°F (30°C), as Japanese Maples are sensitive to heat stress. Keep the tree away from heat sources like radiators and air vents which can cause leaf burn and dehydration. Rotate your bonsai periodically to ensure even growth, and consider using a humidity tray filled with water and stones to maintain adequate moisture levels around the tree.
Pruning
Regular pruning throughout the growing season is essential for maintaining your Japanese Maple bonsai's shape and health. During spring and summer, focus on controlling new growth by cutting back shoots to one or two pairs of leaves. This encourages ramification and helps maintain the tree's miniature size. Avoid heavy pruning during periods of intense growth, as this can cause excessive bleeding and weaken the tree.
For structural pruning, wait until autumn when the tree's growth slows. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and maintain the desired silhouette. Leaf pruning can be performed every other year in early summer to reduce leaf size and encourage dense growth, but don't remove all leaves at once as this can stress the tree. When pruning, always use clean, sharp tools and seal larger cuts with cut paste to prevent disease entry.
Repotting
Repot your Japanese Maple bonsai every two to three years in early spring, just before the buds begin to swell. This timing allows the tree to recover quickly and take advantage of the growing season. Use a well-draining soil mixture containing equal parts akadama, pumice, and lava rock to provide optimal growing conditions.
When repotting, carefully examine the root system and prune no more than one-third of the roots to maintain the tree's health. Be particularly gentle when handling the roots, as Japanese Maples have sensitive root systems that can be easily damaged. After repotting, keep the tree in a shaded location and protect it from strong winds for several weeks to allow it to recover from the stress of repotting.
Watering
Japanese Maple bonsai requires consistent moisture but cannot tolerate waterlogged soil. Check the soil moisture daily by inserting your finger about an inch into the soil - if it feels dry at this depth, it's time to water. Water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes, but never leave the pot standing in water as this can lead to root rot.
Use room temperature water and ideally, water in the morning to allow excess moisture to evaporate during the day. During hot summer months, you may need to water twice daily, while in winter, reduce watering frequency but never allow the soil to completely dry out. Maintain humidity by misting the foliage regularly and using a humidity tray, especially during dry periods. For optimal results, use water with a neutral to slightly acidic pH, and consider collecting rainwater which contains beneficial minerals.