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Top Questions About Japanese Maple Trees

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Questions About Japanese Maple Trees

  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    October 26, 2011
    Certified Expert
    A.

    Where is the new growth coming from on the tree? Is it from a branch from the base? It sounds like the tree may have been grafted (which is common with Japanese maples) and the rootstock is coming through. The best thing would be to trim away the part that is not growing true as long as it is just a small part of the tree.

    If it is coming from the base, then it would need to be cut away for sure. It is the rootstock sending up a sucker and the more robust sucker (more robust because the rootstock was chosen because it is robust) will eventually kill the grafted part of the tree if it is not removed. If the sucker is larger than the grafted tree, cutting it off may kill the whole plant, but your choices are either to risk killing the whole plant in hopes that the tree will survive and if it survives it will be the pretty Japanese maple. Or leaving the sucker and the pretty Japanese maple part will eventually die off. If you like the look of the rootstock sucker, you can leave it on if you do not mind losing the grafted part.

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  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    January 7, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    Pruning for form is best done in late summer or early fall. Simply cut away any unsightly branches and shape it as desired.

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  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    April 16, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    I would wait to see if they grow new leaves. Also, once the threat of frost is over, you can remove the brown/dead leaves. As long as the stems and branches are still alive, they will grow new leaves. This article will help you determine if the plant is still alive:
    https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/how-to-tell-if-a-plant-is-dead-and-how-to-recover-an-almost-dead-plant.htm

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  • Answered by
    Heather on
    May 12, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    The tree sounds like it either has pests, such as aphids or scale, or has a fungus. I would recommend treating the tree with neem oil as it will treat both problems. It is organic, effective and safe for people, pets and beneficial insects.

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  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    May 12, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    As long as the branches/stems are still green (beneath the bark) and pliable, then your tree should regrow its leaves once the weather tapers off some.

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  • Answered by
    Heather on
    May 21, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    I would recommend having a tree professional come and look at the tree. There are several things that could be causing this damage and decline and they would be difficult to diagnose without seeing the tree in person.

    Some possibilities could be root rot (there are several forms), a fungus or possibly even pests. They would all have these symptoms this way.

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  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    May 16, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    Anytime you are moving a tree, spring is best. The moderate temps and high rain give the tree the best chance for success.

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