Since its inception, one of the types of trees most used in the bonsai technique is the Arce. Deciduous trees with beautiful autumn coloring with which authentic works of art are created.
They are very resistant and adaptable, so it is not surprising that all lovers of this world have the odd copy in their collection. We explain the Maple bonsai care.
Maple trees are native to temperate regions around the world. Its ideal temperature range is between -5º minimum and 30ºC maximum. However, there are species like the Acer or acer opalus that withstand a bit more heat: up to 37ºC, as long as they have enough humidity. Anyway, you should know that a good substrate will make the plant much more resistant weather conditions. In the case of maples, a good substrate would be this: 70% akadama mixed with 30% kiryuzuna.
These incredible plants have to always be located outside, since they need to feel the passage of the seasons to have optimal development and growth. Therefore, although it is common to find bonsai of Acer palmatum Inside the greenhouses in a nursery, as soon as we get home it is highly recommended to put them protected from direct sun, for example on the terrace, where it will also give that oriental touch that we like so much 🙂.
As we have said, they need high humidity. A) Yes, we will water oftenespecially during the summer months. The frequency will vary according to various factors: weather, wind intensity, substrate, location ..., but generally it will be necessary to water 2-3 times a week from autumn to spring, and in summer every 1-2 days. The water to be used will preferably be rain, but if we cannot get it, we will fill a bucket with tap water and let it rest overnight, so that the heavy metals remain inside the container. Another option is add a few drops of lemon or vinegar to lower the pH, something that Japanese maples will especially appreciate.
To keep the design of our tree, can be pinched throughout the growing season, allowing to grow between 4 and 6 pairs of leaves, and remove 2. The formation pruning will be carried out in autumn or towards the end of winter, when its buds are about to awaken.
Do you like maple bonsai? Do you have any?
Yes. I have two Maple. And I have them on the terrace. I can't protect them from the wind and the sun hits them in the morning from sunrise to 9:30 AM.
They had told me that the Arce are badly tolerant of the wind and that the morning sun does not harm them. I have them attached to the wall of the terrace (4 meters from the railing) and with this I mitigate a little the wind that can give them.
I would like to know where I can find a chat where I can comment on bonsai topics
Thank you
Hello Jesus de Angel.
I'm not sorry. The only site specializing in maples that I know of is an English forum, the UBC Botanical Garden.
Greetings.