What Kind Of Soil Does A Japanese Maple Need
John Innes sell their own ericaceous mix which is an ideal choice especially if about 20 of sharp not builders sand is mixed in.
What kind of soil does a japanese maple need. But they are also perfectly content in neutral and even mildly alkaline pH. Most Japanese maples are suitable for USDA hardiness zones 58 though a few can brave zone 4 if planted in protected locations. Maple trees prefer moist soil and some species tolerate the very wet soil thats found in wet bottomlands river flood plains and damp forests.
Well composted leaf mold or well rotted cow manure worked into the soil is ideal. I have read that Japanese Maples prefer lightly acidic soil. Soil pH Considerations The Japanese maple prefers soil that is less than 7 on the pH scale.
The pH scale runs from 0 to 14 with anything below 7 being considered acidic and anything over 7. I know this is completely contrary to the theory behind the gritty mix and I have read Als threads on gardenweb and appreciate what he is saying in theory. The soil mix should hold water evenly throughout the container and allow for goo drainage.
I like to add soilloam to my potting mix for Japanese maples. Its essential to put some rubble or stones at the bottom of the pot to ensure good drainage. Soil for Japanese maple in container apart from being well-drained should also have an overall pH value of 60-70.
Another solution is to use a loam based compost which is slightly acidic. Japanese maples require well-draining soil and will do poorly in clay or wet soil. Japanese Maples prefer a slightly acidic soil so potting compost for Rhododendrons Azaleas or ericaceous plants is suitable.
Neutral or slightly acidic soils are. Once you know the soil pH if necessary you. Japanese maples like most plants like soil that is really rich in decomposed organic matter.