Japanese Acer Not Coming Into Leaf.

Question

Last summer I purchased a Japanese Acer in very good health. It was pot bound so I repotted and it thrived. It is situated in a container in sheltered a basement yard on the coast. It does get a little sunlight late morning then it’s shady. This spring new shoots started to appear but they have never developed. I understand that veriticillium wilt can be a problem but there are no signs of dark areas of wood when a branch is cut, just white with a green centre. There is no signs of any pests. I have repotted taking the old compost off the root ball putting it into ericaceous compost. I am baffled any ideas anyone would be welcome. Thank you Glenn

Answer 1

Unfortunately, your photo did not come through. I am unable to see the damage, and container that it is in.

Likely there are a few things that could have happened. If this was planted in compost, alone, without amending it with top soil or potting soil then I suspect drastic overfeeding. Hot soil will burn roots, and keep the tree from recovering from the transplant shock.

If there is life left in the tree, then there may be a chance to bring it back. If the tree is brittle, then it will be best to start over.

Here are some articles that will help you with the care of Japanese Maple trees:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maples-in-containers.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maple-wont-leaf-out.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maple-feeding.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maple-care.htm