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(Acer palmatum)
 Description : The Japanese maple is the most widely grown maple in gardens and is a perfect subject for bonsai. It is valued for its compact size, delicate ferny foliage and brilliant fall (autumn) colouring - from rich gold to deepest blood-red. Although more tolerant of winter climates than most maples, it needs shade and shelter or leaves may shrivel. The more than 300 cultivars range from rock garden miniatures to vigorous small trees, with a variety of leaf shape, size and colour. 'Sangokaku' (syn. 'Senkaki') has coral branches and twigs, which are bare in winter - producing a wonderful show. Age : Created in 1990 Style : Slanting Techniques Used : Planted in wide, shallow plastic pot to endorse growth of visible base roots and encourage spreading of root system. Pruned back substantially to expose slant of trunk and allow for growth from the top two prominent branches. Wiring and tip pruning from early on. Roots pruned and potted into 6" rectangular blue ceramic dish - repotted every year until '93 to allow for fresh root growth. Repotted every two years from then on. Constant tip pruning in spring is essential to maintain the present shape and encourage a dense branch structure. Other Comments : Requires semi-shade in summer, full sun the rest of the year, and protection from wind. Available in nurseries with more unusual forms found in bonsai nurseries in seedling or seed form.
Repot and fertilise in late winter to early spring. Water as frequently as needed - do not allow bonsai to dry out as this can cause leaf burn. Also be careful of drying winds which can be quite detrimental if the plant is fully exposed - causing leaf burn and dieback - especially for new formed shoots.
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Pinch out 'ambitious' or unwanted shoots in spring - with main pruning to be conducted at this
type of year. When new shoots have developed to around three to five nodes - prune them - but make sure
to leave at least 1cm (1/2in) extra to allow for die back. This is something important to do when pruning
all types of Japanese maples. Trim leaves in late spring.