Bringing a Japanese Maple Indoors

Question

My sister gave me a Japanese Maple that she had planted in her yard. I want to plant it in my yard, but I have to remove a stump first, and that will not be until the spring. Can I plant this tree (it’s only about 3 feet tall) in a large pot and bring it indoors for the winter, and then plant outdoors in the fall?

Answer 1

Yes. Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/growing-trees-in-containers.htm

Answer 2

The article was very helpful, though it didn’t address my main concern. I know that some plants need to be “hardened” before putting them outside. Does the same hold true for bringing an outdoor, yard planted tree, inside and putting it in a pot. Once the spring comes, it will be re-planted into the ground. It’s a beautiful tree, and I don’t want to kill it, by doing something preventable.

Answer 3

Yes, it is also advisable that you harden plants prior to bringing them indoors. Here is more info: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/hpgen/using-pesticides-and-other-chemicals-on-your-houseplants.htm