Acer Palmatum var. Dissectum Red Select -zone 7a (South of Charlotte)

9 years ago

I included my zone and location in the subject because different websites list my zone between 7a-8. Better to be safe than sorry, I think, so I go with 7a. I purchased a Red Select yesterday at Aldi. I know, probably not the smartest purchase. Nevertheless, this little tree in it's 6 1/2" pot is now home with me. I intended to plant it on the NE side of my house about 3-4 ft. from the foundation to make it part of a bed. It would get morning and early afternoon sun. Since it's so small, I am concerned about it surviving the summer heat, and if it makes it, the winter cold. Should I plant it in the ground or let it grow in a container for a season or two. If containerized, what kind of potting material is suggested? Would I take it in for the winter? I have an unheated basement that can get to around 45 at night. If planting it in the ground is the way to go, how should I amend the planting hole? I have tree gators, so I can keep it moist (maybe too moist?). Should I provide winter protection? I really want it to survive and I am willing to baby it and make it a labor of love if possible. Thanks

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gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)

9 years ago

I would reinforce the suggestion NOT to amend planting holes. It has long been disproven that this is a beneficial practice and is just asking for trouble when dealing with a heavy, clay soil. And you never want to dig a planting hole deeper than the depth of the rootball as it comes from the nursery, Loosening the soil in the bottom of the planting hole, even when not amending, will result in settling and your new tree will be planted too deep. Which will eventually be the kiss of death.

When dealing with a heavy, clay soil, dig a very wide but shallow planting hole - like a big saucer. Rough up the sides so they are not smooth (but not the bottom!). Site your new tree so that the top if the rootball is at least 2-3" above grade (higher won't hurt). Backfill using only the soil you dug out, breaking it up as necessary, and bringing it up in a slight mound so that it just meets (but doesn't cover) the top of the rootball. Add whatever amendments you need or wish to use as a mulch or topdressing over this mound.

Lots of plants grow very well in clay - just look at what's growing in the neighborhoods and natural areas around you. Clay soil is much more of an issue for the gardener than it is for the plant, as long as you plant correctly for the soil condition.

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Comments (6)

magpiepix 5b/6a
9 years ago
I think any Japanese maple would be very happy in zone 7! Morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal, but I think you'll be fine. Many varieties can stand some early afternoon sun. In general, in-ground trees do better, but many people grow containerized maples. You just have to be more careful about the drainage and potting medium. Don't over-water-- JMs don't like a lot of damp. As for winter cold, don't worry about it at all and don't bring it inside (unless it's potted, the you might want to move it to a wind-sheltered area). Acer palmatum won't be anywhere near its cold limit in zone 7. Now it's time to read up on care--

http://www.mendocinomaples.com/maple-care

http://www.davidsansjapanesemaples.com/growing-tips/care-guide/#section_2_2
gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
9 years ago
I agree with the above. Yours is a very suitable climate and situation for a Japanese maple. Go ahead and plant it. These are much tougher little trees than many give them credit for.
Liz K 7b-8a Charlotte
Original Author
9 years ago
Thank you both so much. You helped me make a decision - I am going to plant them in the ground! Thank you for the links Magpie; I am reading up. I have a shih tzu named Maggie and I call her Magpie :).
magpiepix 5b/6a
9 years ago
Enjoy! :) And with that zone, you might want to check out other varieties. ;) If you really want to get in trouble, go check out Vertrees' book on Japanese maples. Sooooo many lovely cultivars!
Liz K 7b-8a Charlotte
Original Author
9 years ago
To amend or not to amend the soil? I've read both links and I am not sure which way to go. Our "soil" is heavy red clay/ grey clay muck. Solid as a rock when it gets wet then dries. I always amend when I plant trees. I dig the hole 3x wider than the rootball and also at least 2x as deep. I then fill in the bottom with garden soil and/or top soil and compost - all mixed together. I still plant the tree high and create a mound. I just can't believe most plants/trees can survive in that clay. What are your thoughts?