Japanese maples are a beautiful, small tree that adds a lot of colour to any Southern Ontario garden. They are especially nice in Brampton, where there are lots of different lot sizes and planting styles that work well with ornamental trees. These showstoppers need extra attention as August approaches. If you take good care of your Japanese maple now, it will stay healthy all summer and look great in the fall.
Whether you have it in a pot, in your front yard, or in a shady spot in your backyard, these tips will help your Japanese Maple become a conversation starter.
Why Japanese Maples Do So Well in Ontario
Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) do well in the GTA climate, especially in USDA zones 5b to 6b, which cover most of Brampton and the areas around it. They add structure and beauty all year round with their graceful branches, lacy leaves, and bright red or green colours.
Why they are great for gardens in the area:
- Can handle some sun and some shade
- Compact growth is good for yards in cities and suburbs.
- Varieties are very interesting all year long, from the buds breaking in the spring to the bright fall leaves.
1. Knowing the problems that come up in late summer
August can bring hot, dry weather to Ontario, which can stress or scorch the leaves of Japanese maples. These problems happen a lot with new plants or trees that are in full sun.
Be on the lookout for:
- Scorching brown edges on leaves
- Leaves that are drooping or curling
- Trees grown in containers that don't grow as fast
Answers:
- Put mulch around the base, but not against the trunk, to keep the soil cool and moist.
- Depending on how much it rains, water deeply once or twice a week.
- Don't water in the middle of the day, when it can dry up quickly.
2. How to Take Care of Maples in the Summer
Managing Soil Moisture: Japanese maples like soil that is evenly moist but not soggy. Check the soil about 3 to 4 inches deep with your finger. Time to water if it's dry.
Tip for mulching: Put down 2 to 3 inches of mulch in a donut shape, not like a volcano. This keeps moisture in and protects roots from changes in temperature.
Container Maples: Use a soil mix that drains well and raise the pots a little to let air flow. During heat waves, drink more water.
3. Tips for Pruning in Late Summer
If your tree has finished its main growth spurt, August is a good time to do some light pruning. Don't prune too much, as this can stress the tree and change the colour in the fall.
What to cut:
- Branches that are dead or broken
- Suckers grow at the base of the trunk.
- Little changes to the shape for airflow and structure
Advice: Always use clean, sharp pruners and cut just above a node or branch collar.
4. Getting ready for fall colours
One of the main reasons gardeners choose Japanese maples is because they look so good in the fall. The colours range from fiery red to golden orange, depending on the type.
To get bright fall colours:
- Cut back on nitrogen-based fertilizers by the middle of August. Too much nitrogen makes leaves grow, not change colour.
- During dry spells, keep watering evenly.
- Don't dig or aggressively mulch near the trunk; this can damage the roots.
Varieties that stand out in the fall:
"Bloodgood" is a deep red to burgundy colour.
"Aureum" means "golden yellow."
"Osakazuki" is a bright red colour.
5. Japanese maples are the main trees in Brampton gardens.
Japanese maples can make any landscape look better, whether you're planting new ones or taking care of older ones.
Best places to go:
- As a focal point in an island bed in the front yard
- In a shady spot with ferns and hostas
- Close to water features for a peaceful, Zen-like vibe
Pair with:
- Evergreens for a change
- Grasses for decoration that move
- Native groundcovers like foamflower or wild ginger
Things You Should Not Do
- Too much or too little water can cause root rot or stress.
- Full afternoon sun exposure: Can cause burning
- Not pruning correctly: Summer is not the time for big cuts.
- Heavy fertilization, especially with products that have a lot of nitrogen in them
Last Thoughts: Growing Beauty and Long Life
For more than 40 years, we've helped Brampton gardeners choose and care for the right trees. We've seen Japanese maples do well when they are cared for properly. These trees are more than just pretty in the spring and summer. They're also a good investment in the design of your garden.
A little care in August can make a big difference. If you get ready now, your maple will be a stunning centrepiece this fall and a favourite part of your garden for years to come.