Learning how to grow Japanese maples in pots can add impact, height and structure to your container displays. Whether you have a large garden, a small patio or a micro-patio, growing Japanese maple trees in pots bring a forest feeling to your outdoor area, no matter how big it is.
When considering how to grow these popular trees, you should know that most of these trees are hardy in U.S. hardiness zone 5 and can tolerate winter frosts down to -20°F/-29°C. However, it’s important to remember that Japanese maples do best in forest-like environments. While this may be difficult to achieve on a balcony or patio, there are things you can do to help your potted tree thrive.
Whether you’re a Japanese maple expert or looking to plant your first maple, this guide has all the information you need to grow these unique trees in pots. I spoke with an experienced gardener at the South Coast Botanic Garden in California to discuss how best to approach growing in pots.
(Image credit: Getty Images/mtreasure)
How to grow Japanese maple trees in pots
Japanese maples are often considered the best trees for small gardens. These compact specimens are usually small to medium in size and although their spread depends on the variety you grow, they don’t tend to grow more than 15 to 30 feet tall and wide. However, when grown in a pot, their size is limited due to restricted roots, so you can get an attractive specimen tree in a size that suits you.
Growing tips for Japanese maple in pots
(Image credit: Getty Images/Lemanieh)
Japanese maples are one of the best trees to grow in pots, and by following a few simple steps you can ensure your tree thrives.
“Japanese maple trees are ideal for pot culture, especially dwarf varieties, as they are better suited to long-term pot culture,” says Terry HuangPlant expert and director of the Living Collections at the South Coast Botanic Garden in the Los Angeles area.
These trees are native to Japan and China and are usually found in forested areas where their roots can spread and search for nutrients, so it’s important to use the largest pot possible. “They do best in large pots, 15 gallons or more,” Terry adds. There are many attractive large pots available online, such as these rounded fiberglass pots from Walmart.
Before you fill your pot with soil, find the best spot on your patio or in your garden for the tree to grow. In my experience, a spot with a few hours of morning sun and afternoon shade is preferable. “Japanese maples can struggle in exposed locations, so avoid a sunny corner that’s hot and dry,” says Terry.
“Use high-quality potting soil,” Terry continues, “wood mixes are ideal, and mix in a little topsoil at a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio. This will help with micronutrient and water retention.” Organic potting soil is available at Walmart.
“It’s a good idea to fertilize your Japanese maples once or twice a year,” says Terry. “It’s best to do this in the spring and summer.” Remember, all potted trees rely on you for their water and nutrients, so it’s important to include this important task in your summer gardening checklist.
Consider using fertilizer spikes for trees, available on Amazon. These are a simple solution that requires minimal effort. Simply place the spike in the pot and the nutrients will be slowly released when you water over the next 3 months.
Finally, pruning is an important part of caring for a container-grown Japanese maple tree. Pruning is a job for the winter when the tree is dormant, as cuts will not damage or stress your tree. Remove any diseased or dead branches, then prune to maintain a compact, healthy shape. Japanese maples typically look best when they have an arched, almost drooping silhouette.
Terry Huang is the Living Collections Manager at the South Coast Botanic Garden in the Los Angeles area. He enjoys sharing his passion for plants by finding creative ways to make botany and horticulture fun and accessible to everyone.
Buy tree accessories
These sculptural pots are perfect as a standalone statement piece. They are made from fiberglass, making them lighter yet extremely durable.
These easy-to-use fertilizer sticks are ideal for all trees and shrubs and help provide them with all the nutrients they need.
Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’ is a popular Japanese maple with striking red foliage. This variety is well suited for growing in pots.
Recommended Japanese maple trees for pots
(Image credit: Johner Images via Getty Images)
There are many different Japanese maple varietiesbut for cultivation in pots it is recommended to choose a smaller or dwarf variety.
“A unique option is Acer shirasawanum ‘Aureum’ sometimes called Full Moon Maple because of its rounded leaves, which contrast nicely with any deep-lobed varieties,” says Terry. “This form has beautiful light green leaves with delicate red edges that turn orange in the fall.” At maturity, this smaller variety will grow no more than 10 to 15 feet tall. Full moon maple starter plants are available on Amazon.
Terry also recommends Acer palmatum ‘Crimson Queen’ for its ‘classic trailing form with feathery, plum-coloured foliage that turns purple and red in the fall.’ This dwarf variety grows to a maximum height of 3 metres when fully grown and can be kept slightly smaller in a pot. Acer palmatum “Crimson Queen” is available on Amazon.
FAQ
How often should you repot a Japanese maple tree?
Japanese maples tend to grow slowly, so you don’t need to repot them that often. However, it’s a good idea to repot your tree into a slightly larger container every three years to maintain the tree’s growth and health. This is best done in early spring or late summer, but avoid repotting in cold or hot temperatures. It’s best to do this during a mild week to avoid stressing the tree.
Growing Japanese maple trees in pots is an ideal option for gardeners with less space. These spectacular trees add a special touch to any garden, providing a backdrop of foliage in spring and summer before taking centre stage in autumn when the leaves change colour. For more information on growing shrubs and trees in pots, see our guide to growing flowering dogwood trees in pots.
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