Baton Rouge Japanese Maple

$34.97 – $59.97

Baton Rouge Japanese Maple has flaming red, waxy looking bark in the winter that dazzles the drab winter landscape with color. The leaves have some red tipping in the spring for a nice contrast to the branches. Nice bronzing of the leaves when placed in full sun. Fall color is bright yellows with some orange and red which really makes a show against the fiery bark! Does very well in the sun and heat, even in the south. Tends to become even more beautiful in the full sun.

• Scientific Name: Acer palmatum ‘Baton Rouge’
• USDA Zone: 5 – 8
• Average Height: 10′ – 12′
• Average Width: 8′
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade

Japanese Maple Planting/Care Instructions

Before planting, have your soil tested to see what amendments are needed. Click this link to check your frost dates: Frost Dates. Choose the right time of the year to plant according to your zone. When you receive your tree, soak the root ball in water for 20 minutes upon arrival before planting or potting. Gently break up the root ball. This will help the roots of the tree to grow out into the soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of your tree. Fill in the hole tightly with soil to avoid any air pockets. Plant your maple with the root flare above the soil line.

Japanese maples planted in the ground generally do not need fertilizer. Container grown maples can use a bit of slow-release fertilizer. However, variegated cultivars should not be fertilized. Be sure to water your trees. In addition, pull weeds out when they appear. They take nutrients from the soil.

Young grafted trees will continue to have new growth on the rootstock for several years. If new buds or branches develop on the rootstock, remove them before they grow larger. If a larger branch develops, use sterile pruners to remove. Prune trees as needed to encourage growth. Always sterilize your pruners. If you have trouble keeping up with your pruners, check out our locally hand-made leather pruner holster here.

Lastly, enjoy your Japanese Maple and your time in the garden!