🍁 Scientific Name: Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)
🍁 Common Types: Acer 'Bloodgood', Acer 'Orange Dream', Acer 'Dissectum' varieties
🍁 Ideal for: Containers, borders, Japanese-style gardens, focal points
🍁 Hardiness: Fully hardy in most UK regions

Introduction to Acer Trees

Acer trees, especially Japanese Maples, are cherished for their delicate foliage, striking seasonal colour, and compact size – making them perfect for UK gardens of any size. From vibrant reds to golden yellows and lush greens, Acers offer year-round interest, particularly in autumn when their leaves put on a spectacular display.

Acers thrive in sheltered, partially shaded spots and are equally happy in the ground or in containers. Their graceful form and refined texture make them ideal as specimen trees or as part of mixed planting.

🌿 Looking to add one to your garden? Explore our full Acer Collection for high-quality plants.

Best Growing Conditions for Acers

Light Requirements

☀️ Acers prefer dappled or partial shade, especially in warmer regions
☀️ Avoid intense afternoon sun which can scorch delicate leaves
☀️ Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal

Soil Requirements

🌱 Moist but well-drained soil
🌱 Slightly acidic to neutral pH is best (avoid chalky soils)
🌱 Enrich with compost or leaf mould when planting

📌 Tip: For containers, use ericaceous compost to support healthy root growth and colour.

Planting Acer Trees

1️⃣ Choose a sheltered spot, protected from strong winds
2️⃣ Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and mix in organic matter
3️⃣ Plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface
4️⃣ Backfill and firm in well, then water thoroughly
5️⃣ Apply mulch around the base, avoiding the trunk

Watering & Feeding Acers

Watering Tips

💧 Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first few years
💧 Acers dislike both waterlogging and drought
💧 Potted Acers may need daily watering in summer

Feeding Tips

🍁 Feed in early spring with a slow-release fertiliser or liquid feed
🍁 For best results, use a specialist product like our Acer Japanese Maple Feed
🍁 Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which promote leafy, weak growth

Pruning & Maintenance of Acer Trees

✂️ Minimal pruning needed – just remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring
✂️ Avoid heavy pruning, as Acers bleed sap if cut at the wrong time
✂️ Light shaping can be done in summer once leaves are fully expanded

Winter Care for Acers

Acers are hardy but benefit from protection from cold winds and late frosts.

❄️ Use fleece for late spring frosts that may damage new growth
❄️ For pots, raise off the ground and insulate with bubble wrap if a harsh winter is forecast
❄️ Avoid root disturbance and excessive mulching over the crown

FAQs About Acer Trees

1. Can I grow Acers in pots?

Absolutely – Acers are ideal for containers. Use a large pot with good drainage and ericaceous compost. Water regularly and feed in spring.

2. Why are my Acer’s leaves scorched or crispy?

Leaf scorch is often due to hot sun, wind exposure, or drought. Move the plant to a more sheltered spot and maintain consistent moisture.

3. When should I prune my Acer?

Late winter or very early spring before sap rises is best for essential pruning. For light shaping, prune in summer.

4. How fast do Acer trees grow?

Most Japanese Maples are slow-growing, gaining about 15–30cm per year depending on variety and conditions.

5. Do Acers need special fertiliser?

Yes – for vibrant foliage and healthy growth, use a specialist product like Acer Japanese Maple Feed once or twice in spring.

6. What pests or diseases affect Acers?

They are generally low-maintenance but may suffer from vine weevils, aphids, or powdery mildew. Treat early with organic controls if spotted.

7. Can I move an established Acer?

It’s best to plant Acers in their final position. If you must move one, do it in late autumn or winter while dormant, and water well afterwards.

8. Do Acers drop their leaves in winter?

Yes, Japanese Maples are deciduous, shedding their leaves in autumn after a colourful display.

9. Which Acers are best for small gardens?

Look for compact varieties like Acer palmatum ‘Dissectum’, ‘Little Princess’, or ‘Orange Dream’, which stay small and manageable.

10. Where can I buy high-quality Acer trees in the UK?

Visit our full Acer Collection to find the perfect variety for your garden, along with everything you need to keep them thriving.