A Japanese Maple in a Pot or Container
If there’s one tree that’s tailor-made for growing in a pot, it’s the Japanese maple (Acer palmatum). Its small stature, slow growth rate, fibrous root system and elegant good looks make it the prime candidate. Handsome enough to showcase on its own, Japanese maple also works nicely with companion plants like rhododendron, mountain laurel and azaleas. Companion plants are those that require similar growing conditions. In the case of the Japanese maple, optimal growing conditions include moist but well-drained, slightly acidic soil that's rich in organic matter, and partial sun or high light.
There are many varieties of Japanese maple, and while they all self-stunt — meaning the top growth slows — when roots are confined, it's a good idea to choose small and dwarf varieties for container planting. Choose a plant with vibrant red, purple or bronze fall colors for a bright addition to your patio or garden.
Planting a Japanese Maple in a Container
Follow these tips to help your potted maple thrive for years:
- Choose a dwarf cultivar that matures at less than 10 feet. Larger ornamental maples will also work if you prune them annually. See our guide — Choosing an Ornamental Tree — to see what types of trees look and thrive well in your area.
- Select a container that’s no more than twice the volume of the roots. Make sure there’s a drainage hole. Japanese maples won't survive in soggy soil. See our guide — Planters, Window Boxes and Plant Containers — to learn more.
- Use quality potting soil but not one that contains slow-release fertilizer that might burn roots.
- Fertilize sparingly. Apply a water-based fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, when growth begins in the spring. See our guide — Soil and Soil Amendments — for help choosing the right fertilizer for Japanese maple trees.
- Ensure your tree has partial sunlight. Too much sun can affect the vibrant colors of the foliage.
Caring for a Japanese Maple
Maintenance for your Japanese maple in a pot is relatively simple. Keep up with these tasks to keep your tree healthy and beautiful.
- Prune in midsummer with shears to shape the plant or keep it at the desired size. Our Garden Tools Buying Guide will help you select the right tools for the job.
- Individual branches can be coaxed to hang downward in a more elegant habit by hanging light weights on the branches for one growing season.
- Repot once roots reach the sides and bottom of the pot, generally every couple of years. Prune the roots by cutting away large, woody roots to encourage small fibrous ones to form.
- Overwinter potted Japanese maples in a protected spot after foliage drops in the fall. Move the plant to an unheated garage or basement where temperatures remain above freezing (an attached garage works well). No light is needed when the tree is dormant. Keep the soil moderately moist until returning the maple outdoors in the spring.
Are Japanese Maples Fast Growing?
Japanese maples grow about 1 to 2 feet a year, so they're considered slow-to-moderate growers. They tend to grow fastest when they are young, and growth slows down as they reach maturity.
Where do Japanese Maples Grow Best?
Japanese maples tend to grow best in hardiness zones 5 to 8 — areas where the average annual low temperature is no lower than -20 degrees Fahrenheit. Be wary of placing your potted tree outside too early in the spring, as a late freeze could cause serious damage. Also, consider extreme heat in the south that may cause red and purple foliage to turn green in the summer.
Do Japanese Maples Grow in Shade?
Yes, while Japanese maples do well with partial shade and even full sun in most areas, trees situated in shadier areas tend to have more vibrantly colored foliage.