How to Care for a Weeping Japanese Maple Tree

Weeping Japanese maple is a species of tree native to eastern Asia that is commonly grown for its ornamental foliage. The leaves are a subtle red during the summer months, and become more vivid and colorful once fall arrives. The weeping Japanese maple tree should never be pruned, as the limbs hang toward the ground after substantial growth, hence the name. They can grow up to 20 feet in height and are very hardy, strong trees that require little care.

Bucket

Mulch

Fertilizer

Plant weeping Japanese maple trees in a location that receives about four hours of direct sunlight each day, with partial afternoon shade. Ensure the planting site has well-drained, fertile soil and is not near any other large plants.

Dig a planting hole three times as wide as the root ball and of equal depth. Set the tree into the hole, and arrange it so the top one to two inches of the crown are above ground. Water thoroughly to bring moisture into contact with the roots.

Water once every two weeks during spring and fall. Increase frequency to once every week during summer. Dump two large buckets of water over the soil surrounding the tree during each watering. Do not water during winter months.

Spread a three-inch layer of mulch around the soil surrounding the tree. Begin the layer three inches away from the crown of the tree to allow circulation. Maintain the mulch all year, applying more as necessary.

Feed once a month during all seasons but winter. Use a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients. Do not allow any fertilizer to come into contact with the trunk of the tree. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for proper dosage.

The crown is the portion of the tree where the trunk meets the roots.

Any kind of bark mulch is ideal for the weeping Japanese maple trees.