How to Grow Butterfly Japanese Maple

Japanese maple makes a beautiful bonsai.

This is a small leafed tree that is variegated. The leaves are green with cream markings in the margins. The leaves of this fine cultivar are variable; rarely with two being exactly alike. In the fall the leaves turn to a beautiful magenta. Growth is normally quite short and twiggy, producing a tree that is stiffly upright. Ideal as a specimen, a foundation for a large building, or a great container plant, as well as bonsai.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Organic Matter
• Fertilizer

Instructions

1. Select a site that has good drainage and partial shade. Dig a hole about twice the size of the root ball. For a vigorous healthy maple amend your soil with organic matter and incorporate a slow release fertilizer.

2. Bury the root-ball to where the old soil line is. Water in well. I also suggest adding a layer of mulch two to four inches deep. Be sure the mulch is not touching the trunk of your maple or it will rot.

3. Water your maple every other day for a week until it is established. Once established the tree is very low maintenance.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to water in well immediately after planting.

• Add me as your friend

• Be sure to water in well immediately after planting

References

• Monrovia: Butterfly Japanese Maple