The Japanese maple (acer palmatum) is an ornamental tree that comes in a variety of sizes and colors. Large versions can grow to 35 ft in height when given enough space.
Like the arms of a ballerina, elegant branches extend out. Jewel-toned leaves flutter and dance in the breeze, becoming a muse that has inspired poets and artists for eons.
Dwarf varieties perform this same show in pots that frame a patio or deck. How do we keep them this enchanting? With proper care that includes the best Japanese maple fertilizer.
Best Fertilizers For Japanese Maples
Best Organic Fertilizer
Down to Earth Tree & Shrub Fertilizer 4-2-4
A gentle fertilizer blend that delivers 100% organic ingredients. Suitable for new saplings as well as older varieties of Japanese Maple to boost foliage growth and protect against damage.
Best Slow-Release Granular Feed
Espoma TR4 Tree-Tone 6-3-2
Includes a unique blend of microbes that ensure continuous nutrient release for up to 3 months. Ideal for mature, non-flowering Japanese Maples.
Best Fertilizer Spikes
Jobe’s Fertilizer Spikes, For Trees & Shrubs 15-3-3
Mess-free, slow-release, convenient spikes, ideal for use on established Japanese Maples right from the start of the growing season. Improves soil quality and promotes strong root growth and is suitable for a wide range of tree and shrub fertilizing too.
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Choosing Fertilizer for Japanese Maple
To encourage the rainbow of foliage colors possible with Japanese maples, their particular nutrient needs must be addressed. Acers aren’t necessarily heavy feeders, but they do require consistent access to the right nutrients, in the right NPK ratio, to remain healthy and vibrant.
All Acers produce some sort of flower and seed combination. Some develop lovely, fragrant blooms that perfume the space around them. While others generate these for purely functional purposes.
Fragrant bloomers need a bit more phosphorus and potassium in their NPK, like an 8-11-11. This will encourage abundant bud formation, color, and fragrance.
For varieties that showcase their leaves and branches, slightly higher nitrogen, such as a 2-1-1 NPK, will create a lush bounty of foliage with vivid color.
A low and slow approach to fertilizing, using a slow-release option throughout the growing season, will provide mature trees with an equally steady flow of nutrients.
New saplings are heavier feeders, as they become established. A faster-acting liquid feed is what’s needed here. This will support the rapid growth of young trees.
Japanese maple fertilizers should not have high nitrogen levels, such as those made for lawns. Excessive nitrogen can force foliage growth that may develop in distorted shapes and without the necessary, underlying pigments for beautiful autumn color.
Forced growth can also result in weak branches that would be vulnerable to pests, disease, and frost damage. Maple trees, in general, grow healthier in form and color, when allowed to grow at a slower pace.
Japanese Maple Tree N-P-K Ratio
Japanese maples thrive with access to the right combination of nutrients. The best NPK will depend on the age of your tree, the variety (full size vs. dwarf), and where its planted. But what do all the nutrients do for these colorful maples?
Nitrogen (N) – is considered the most vital nutrient (in proper doses) for supporting plant growth. A key component in chlorophyll, nitrogen encourages green color and the creation of plant food via photosynthesis.
Phosphorus (P) – works on a molecular level to regulate protein synthesis, playing a major role in the growth and overall structure of trees. While promoting proper development of root systems and accelerating tree maturity.
Potassium (K) – drives the circulation of water, nutrients, and carbohydrates throughout plants, shrubs, and trees. It also activates the enzymes responsible for regulating the rate and efficiency of photosynthesis.
The NPK of every fertilizer is displayed as three numbers on the label. These numbers are the N-P-K ratio of that fertilizer, indicating its proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
For example: An 8-11-11 NPK contains 8% nitrogen, 11% phosphorus and 11% potassium. All plants require these elements in order to thrive, just in different proportions.
Types of Fertilizer
Four different classes of fertilizer offer flexible options for various usage and gardening styles.
- Quick Release – liquid and water-soluble options offer immediate uptake of nutrients. Resulting in accelerated improvement for ailing plants. As well as rapid root and shoot growth.
- Slow Release – Concentrated granules and spikes offer a steady stream of nutrients over an extended period of time. With a low risk of plant burn and fewer applications needed.
- Organic – made from minerals, decomposed plant material, and animal bi-products that contain natural nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nourish plants and improve soil quality and fertility, simultaneously.
- Inorganic – manufactured with minerals and chemicals, these can result in a quick boost of growth. But they can also potentially contaminate soil and do little to increase fertility.
Fertilizer Granules
Slow-releasing, granular fertilizers (both organic and synthetic) are easy to use and can provide consistent nourishment for up to nine months. The first results show in just a few weeks, depending on the brand.
Nutrients are released from each granule as warming temperatures slowly melt their coating away. Providing a “time-release” method of fertilizing.
The biggest benefit of this approach is the steady and evenly distributed flow of nourishment to plant roots. Rather than inundating them with a blast of heavy nutrients all at once, which could be quite damaging.
Granules are applied by casting them evenly around the base of shrubs and plants. No watering is needed to activate them and is less likely to leach into nearby surfaces or groundwater.
Fertilizer Spikes
Spikes are one of the most convenient to use, especially if you have a container garden or oversized landscape trees. Pre-measured in various sizes, they’re easy to push into loamy soil. And being slow-releasing, they run little risk of burning.
The soil around large trees tends to be more compact, making it difficult to push spikes into. Another benefit of spikes is that they can be broken up and evenly distributed around large trees. Providing the same convenient nutrient flow, but without frustration.
Nutrients are released from these spikes by micro-organisms that are naturally present in the soil. And carry the added benefit of stimulating an increased resistance to disease and pests. Unused portions can then be stored mess-free until needed.
Liquid Fertilizer
Most liquid fertilizers come in concentrated or water-soluble granule form and need to be diluted prior to use. Then, applied with a watering can or hose attachment, around your plants.
Nutrients are then immediately carried to the root system through the soil or leaves. Some are also formulated to be used as foliar sprays and in slow-drip irrigation systems.
Liquid feeds are often more economical (due to cheaper production costs) and may show faster results. However, they don’t necessarily work better than slow-release options.
Over-feeding is high on the list of the most common causes of plant failure. This is especially so with liquids and could lead to root and plant burn. So, caution is recommended with these, as is following exact manufacturer directions.
Synthetic Vs Organic
Deciding between organic and synthetic Japanese maple fertilizer is simply a matter of personal preference and end-result expectations. However, a basic understanding of how each works and affects your environment can support an informed decision.
Organic fertilizers
- Are typically plant or animal-based
- Contain lower levels of nutrients but more closely match what plants would have access to in the wild, based on the natural recycling of fallen plant material
- Maintain optimum nutrient levels in food crops, while naturally increasing and supporting soil fertility
- Nourish plants for longer periods of time by promoting a fertile growing medium that includes proper aeration and drainage
Synthetic Fertilizers
- Are mass-produced using minerals and laboratory-made chemical compounds
- Boost rapid plant and flower growth by providing higher levels of nutrients than plants would normally have access to in their native habitats.
- Have little to no impact on healthy microbial activity in the soil, soil texture, or long-term fertility
- This can result in lower nutrient levels in food crops
- Can potentially contaminate soil and nearby water sources in the long-term
- Inorganic liquid feeds can overwhelm plants with high levels of nutrients, all at once. Which can result in root and foliage burn, as well as general plant failure.
5 Best Japanese Maple Fertilizers
I have several Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) varieties in my garden. So, I’ve had the opportunity to test several different fertilizer options.
The following are my picks for the top 5 performers, based on NPK results, versatility-of-use, and product features that accommodate many gardening styles.
Pros
- 100% natural and organic fertilizer
- Contains potash as perfect for Acer growing
- Protects against adverse weather conditions
Cons
- May require more than one application per year
This 100% organic and all-natural option from Down to Earth is fortified with organic compounds including Kelp, Fish Meal, and Mycorrhizal Fungi to develop strong, healthy roots and protect against adverse weather stresses and common tree pests and diseases.
This combined ratio of nitrogen and potassium encourages healthy photosynthesis for lush and colorful foliage throughout the growing season. While also improving resistance to harsh winter climates.
And the mild formula means it is gentle enough to be used regularly, especially for potted varieties that need fertilizing more often.
How To Use: Measure out the required amount based on 1lb of fertilizer per 1” of the trunk. Sprinkle away from the base of the trunk and around the drip line and water in. Gentle enough to be applied in Spring and again in fall.
For containers, sprinkle up to 2 tablespoons per gallon of soil, mix well, and water in.
Pros
- Versatile enough to benefit shade and full-sun fruit and ornamental trees
- Shows quick results with ailing trees
Cons
- A larger amount of product may be needed to achieve expected results
- Not intended for potted trees
From ornamentals such as Japanese Maples to fruit trees and pine trees, these organic granules from Espoma are versatile and excellent value for money.
As you may have come to expect with Espoma products, these fertilizing granules contain their patented Bio-tone microbes formula that ensures a slow release of nutrients to your trees for up to 3 months.
I recommend using these on mature non-flowering Acer specimens that don’t need feeding too regularly. The moderate inclusion of nitrogen will mitigate any potential for excessive leaf development that can often lead to a misshaped canopy.
How To Use: Measure out 9 cups (3 lbs) of fertilizer per inch of the tree trunk. Sprinkle the required measure of granules onto the soil around the tree trunk and within the dripline. Apply once in early spring and again in early fall.
Pros
- Mess-free fertilizing with no strong odor
- Only two applications are needed for the whole season
Cons
- Soil may need to be dampened before use
Since Japanese Maple prefers the low and slow approach to fertilizing, these spikes from Jobe’s may well become your Acer’s best friend, but only if you know your soil is depleted of nitrogen after conducting a soil test.
More suited to non-flowering varieties and mature trees, this mess-free and slow-release approach to feeding mean that a continual supply of nutrients is released directly to the root area for up to 3 months. With the added advantage of no risk of run-off.
What’s more, these spikes can be used as a fertilizer for Evergreens too.
How To Use: Water soil thoroughly before evenly spacing spikes around the tree’s drip line. Apply 1-3 spikes depending on trunk diameter, or one spike per 3 ft of shrub height.
Pros
- Specially formulated to increase the number of flowers and fruit yield
- Higher pH for acid-loving plants
Cons
- It May require a higher dose if applied to mulched soil
Another highly effective Japanese Maple slow-release Fertilizer from Espoma, and as always, their trademark Bio-tone microbes are included in the list of ingredients.
This one – their Holly-tone formula – is ideal for flowering varieties, or where drought conditions are a threat. What’s more, this one can be used to fertilize other evergreens and acid-loving shrubs in your garden.
How To Use: Sprinkle 1 lb per inch of trunk diameter around the base of your tree. Once in spring, then repeat at half the dosage in fall. Always apply prior to rainfall.
Pros
- Beneficial NPK for well-composted soil
- Fast growth in just one season
Cons
- Not recommended for potted trees and shrubs
Scott’s slow-release granules work brilliantly for all acid-loving plants and for gardens with a soil pH range of 6.5 and below.
I recommend it for use on mature, ground planted Japanese Maples, especially at the start of the growing season when roots need a helping hand to get re-established and stable. I certainly noticed an increase in the abundance of lush green foliage in a rather lackluster Acer that needed some encouragement recently.
This feed is suitable for use on flowering specimens of Japanese Maple, as well as popular garden shrubs such as Hydrangea, and as a fertilizer for Dogwood.
How To Use: 1 cup spread over every sq ft of the growing area within the drip line feeds for up to 2 months. Work granules into the top 3” of soil and water thoroughly.
How to Fertilize Japanese Maple Trees
An effective fertilization strategy for your Japanese maples is one of the hallmarks of tree-growing success.
While these don’t require heavy fertilizing, they are steady feeders. As mentioned, a low and slow approach to fertilizing, using a slow-release option throughout the growing season, will provide mature trees with an equally steady flow of nutrients.
For heavier feeding saplings, a faster acting liquid feed may be appropriate, to support rapidly growing, young trees as they become established in their new environment.
Again, avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers, such as those developed for lawns. Excessive nitrogen can force foliage growth that may grow in unnatural forms and minus the underlying pigments that create autumn color.
Forced growth can also result in weak branches that would be vulnerable to pests, disease, and frost damage. Maple trees, in general, grow healthier in form and color, when allowed to grow at a slower pace.
Naturally, each application method will have different instructions. Diluted liquids should be applied using a watering can or a hose attachment. Applying these in the cooler hours of the day will prevent the scorching of those lovely leaves in direct sun.
Dry granules and spikes can be applied any time of day and don’t necessarily require watering. But, applying them just before a forecasted rainfall will hasten activation.
How Often to Feed Japanese Maple
How often to apply fertilizer will also be dictated by the brand and application method you choose. Yet, because most fertilizers are made to accommodate many different plant types, it’s important to understand the nutrient needs of your Acer trees, specifically.
Mature trees, grown in the ground, will only need to be fed once in spring. With a slow-release fertilizer, like Jobe’s spikes or Dr. Earth’s granules. This should last right through the growing season.
Japanese maples growing in pots will need to be fed twice a year. Again with a slow-release fertilizer. This is due to the inevitable leaching of nutrients, soil, and moisture that occurs with more frequent watering.
Your chosen NPK should also take into consideration the current health and age of your tree. As well as the condition of your soil. Which is easy to determine by performing a simple soil test.
Newly planted saplings, between one and two years old, will benefit from a liquid fertilizer. Such as Down to Earth’s All-Natural formula, which can be diluted with water to make a “tea”.
When applied according to the manufacturer’s frequency instructions, you can begin feeding in late spring.
Signs of Fertilizer Burn on Acers
Unfortunate symptoms of fertilizer burn can appear within a day or two. Or it may take several weeks if you’re using a slow-release option.
Either way, if you see a scorched appearance in the foliage, especially if your trees grow in a shady spot, this is most likely fertilizer burn. However, for those growing with more sun exposure, it may also be heat stress.
While the over-application of phosphorus and potassium can have adverse effects, fertilizer burn is most often caused by too much nitrogen.
As previously noted, evidence of nitrogen overuse begins when foliage grows in distorted shapes with faded colors.
Excess phosphorus and potassium may have the opposite effect. These elements focus on bud production and nutrient circulation. As tree energy is refocused, bare branches in summer may result.
If over-fertilization continues, the burning will extend to the roots and the tree will no longer have a means of receiving nutrients or moisture. Branches and stems will wilt and the trunk will no longer be green inside when scratched.
If fertilizer burn is caught early, cut back the damaged bits and stop fertilizing. In pots, do the same, then flush the soil with water.
Verdict: Best Japanese Maple Fertilizers
After a thorough road-testing and the knowledge that these fertilizers have a proven track record for being suitable choices for Japanese Maple, it’s down to you now to decide which one suits your needs and your variety of Acer best.
Choose Down To Earth for Trees & Shrubs if 100% organic and a delicate balance of nutrients is what you need. This feed is loaded with goodness to enhance overall health, root development, and a beautiful canopy of foliage.
Best Organic Fertilizer
Down to Earth All Natural Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Mix 4-2-4
A gentle fertilizer blend that delivers 100% organic ingredients. Suitable for new saplings as well as older varieties of Japanese Maple to boost foliage growth and protect against damage.
Or choose my slow-release granule selection which is Espoma Tree Tone. This is a high-quality and cost-effective feed where a little goes a long way and is ideal for mature, non-flowering varieties of Acer.
Best Fertilizer Granules
Espoma TR4 Tree-Tone 6-3-2
Includes a unique blend of microbes that ensure continuous nutrient release for up to 3 months. Ideal for mature, non-flowering Japanese Maples.
Alternatively, if like me, you prefer the mess and fuss-free option of fertilizer spikes then choose Jobe’s Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes. The perfect slow-release nutrient option, that’s ideal for nitrogen-deficient soils.
Best Fertilizer Spikes
Jobe’s Fertilizer Spikes, For Trees & Shrubs 15-3-3
Mess-free, slow-release, convenient spikes, ideal for use on established Japanese Maples right from the start of the growing season. Improves soil quality and promotes strong root growth and is suitable for a wide range of tree and shrub fertilizing too.
When to Fertilize Japanese Maple
The best time to feed mature Japanese maples is in the spring. Roughly, three weeks before the onset of new growth. When dormant, from late fall to early spring, there’s no need. Fertilizing when dormant could cause irreparable damage.
If your trees have sustained any winter damage, wait until you’ve done a proper pruning and the tree has had time to heal, which requires energy. Fertilization may distract energy away from this effort, weakening the tree.
Unlike other sapling varieties, you should refrain from fertilizing newly planted Acer trees until they’ve been in their new environments for a full year. Provided that they were planted in fertile soil and over-fertilizing at this time could damage the roots of your new investments. Once past the second growing season, you can fertilize them as you would a mature tree.
When planting in poor soil, on the other hand, a scoop of fertilizer granules, added to the hole prior to planting, will help roots become established.
For dwarf trees grown in pots, or other large containers, fertilizing should be done twice per year. In mid-spring and again in late summer.
If you have Japanese maples growing on a lawn, be mindful that these are very sensitive to high levels of nitrogen. If you fertilize your lawn, it probably won’t be necessary to separately fertilize your Acers.
