Knowledgebase
Japanese maple #813206
Asked October 04, 2022, 6:24 PM EDT
Ingham County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
Japanese maples (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) I’m guessing that your tree is ‘Bloodgood’ prefer dappled sun (morning sun is the best) with well-drained, moist, acid soil, rich in organic matter. Read more here: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a990
Light levels affect the color of the tree—it can be either too much sun or too little depending on the species. Most Japanese maples show their true red color in the spring and fall but often green up during the summer. In the summer when it is hot, the plants burn more carbohydrates which can account for the loss of color other than green. Stressors such as extreme heat in the summer and little water; fertilizing and pruning late in the season can lead to leaf scorch and greening of the foliage. Your tree seems to be responding to the conditions that it is living in.
You can also consult a certified arborist to assess the tree. To find an arborist in your area go to www.treesaregood.org, the website of the International Society of Arboriculture.
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.