Acer tataricum

Spring - late · Outdoors

Feed young plants with slow release fertiliser

Spread a slow release fertiliser around the base of the plant to the edge of the foliage spread, so that it can feed the roots. It is helpful for this to be applied for several years.

This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost until the plant becomes well established.

Spring-Autumn · Outdoors

Water during drought

In drought conditions where established plants in the ground have had no water for a month, do a deep watering. If drought continues repeat after a fortnight. Plants only need watering during spring to autumn growth. Check plants in pots more often.

Established plants have a good degree of drought tolerance. Water after a prolonged period of drought. Many drought tolerant plants can rapidly revive, even when much of the foliage has died. They will respond with new growth.

Winter · Planting

Prune to maintain the plant

Pruning is done in winter when the plant is dormant as otherwise it can 'bleed' badly when cut. Keep the plant looking attractive and healthy by removing dead branches, removing branches that cross or rub each other, and those which spoil its appearance.

The plant is encouraged to develop a pleasing shape by removing deviant or dead growth. It is much more likely to remain healthy if branches that rub, or can rub each other are removed since rubbed spots can be places where disease is introduced.

Outdoors

Dislikes pollution

This plant dislikes atmospheric pollution, so is not suitable for smoggy locations, or roadside planting.

Planting

Protect & support young trees

Attach a newly planted tree or tall shrub over 1m to a tree stake to give support and prevent windrock. Use a tree guard to stop tree bark being eaten by animals, especially in areas with deer - removing bark injures a tree and in worst case can kill it.