Japanese Maples are surprisingly easy to grow and maintain in the garden as long as you plant them right, and in the right spot.

This is a somewhat lengthy article because the planting method you use has much to do with how well your Japanese maple will perform over the years. And there are several methods to choose from based on the lay of the land in the planting area and the type and drainage of the soil.

So, before planting a Japanese Maple in your yard make sure to read the points below first and then take a look at planting methods for various situations in order to choose the best one for planting your tree.

• Most any garden soil will grow Japanese maples but the soil must be well-drained! Consistently wet or soggy soil around the roots can cause serious problems and even be a killer.
• Japanese Maples are generally winter hardy to about minus 20 degrees F, and grow well in Zones 5-9 in the United States.
• Japanese maples will grow in sun or shade however, in their natural habitat, you would usually find them growing as understory trees in the dappled sunlight of the forest, or on the edges of woodland borders. Ideally, and especially in the southern, hotter regions of U.S., Japanese maples prefer to be grown in locations that provide some afternoon shade or filtered sunlight. Direct afternoon sunlight in these hotter regions does not kill trees but the newest leaves of some varieties may burn and/or scald. That being said, there are some varieties that grow well in full sun. Check with your local nursery and garden center professional to see what varieties do best in your area.

Continue on to the next page to find specific instructions for planting Japanese Maples