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Problem with Crimson Queen Japanese maple

12 years ago

I've had this maple for about 10 years. I bought it mature and had it at my prior house that was a zone warmer for about 6 years where it did very well. 4 years ago we successfully transplanted to a new house. It took a year to recover but was looking good the past 2 years. This winter was particularly cold and long. Tree budded mid May, mostly on the very bottom and random spots around the tree. Much of the tree has no leaves. It's heartbreaking to see, but not sure what to do except wait and see. I've posted some pics-- any thoughts or advice on what I can do to help it?

Thank you!

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Comments (2)

cearbhaill (zone 6b Eastern Kentucky)
12 years ago
Not much you can do except remove the dead portions and wait. If there is not much viable growth left I would not be going in trying to shape it- it needs every leaf it has purely to sustain itself.
After a year or two of looking at it you can decide whether or not it is worth keeping.
I would certainly give it that amount of time, though, seeing as you have a sentimental attachment to it.
RFinlay
12 years ago
I have a similar problem... am a newbie gardner so please forgive some of my incorrect comments if any...
My guy told me that the buds form in the fall for the next spring...because we had a harsh winter the buds were damaged and didn't continue the formation (growth) process in the spring.
Recommended solution: wait until weather is warm, test for dead branches (scratch green test) and trim away dead branches...then wait to see if it recovers.
Its a shame to see such a beautiful tree in rough shape but patience and trimming seems to be the answer
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