Acer Rubrum - Canadian Maple

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quodlibet_ens
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Acer Rubrum - Canadian Maple

Post by quodlibet_ens »

I picked up these two Canadian Maples yesterday from one of my local nurseries that specialise in cold climate plants. I've heard that these aren't terribly suitable for bonsai, but my wife is Canadian and I thought what's the worst that could happen.

I'm not sure if I'll attempt to train both as bonsai, I'm kinda into the idea of planting one and possibly tapping it in the future for maple syrup. Either way, I'm excited about the colours these will produce each Autumn.ImageImage

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Re: Acer Rubrum - Canadian Maple

Post by shibui »

Leaf size and generally long internodes make these a bit awkward for bonsai. You should consider growing it into a larger sized bonsai to get reasonable perspective in your tree.

Good luck with the maple syrup. I'm told that sap doesn't flow unless you have very cold nights and bright sunny days. I don't think anywhere in Aust has the required climate for maple sap production but maybe Hazelbrook is the place for it :fc:
Even if you can't harvest syrup she will no doubt be pleased to have another Canadian living nearby.
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quodlibet_ens
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Re: Acer Rubrum - Canadian Maple

Post by quodlibet_ens »

shibui wrote:Leaf size and generally long internodes make these a bit awkward for bonsai. You should consider growing it into a larger sized bonsai to get reasonable perspective in your tree.

Good luck with the maple syrup. I'm told that sap doesn't flow unless you have very cold nights and bright sunny days.
I read earlier today that leaves on potted trees don't get anywhere near as large and size can be further altered through defoliation. But as you mention, a larger size bonsai, omono or dai sized bonsai perhaps, would suit this tree more.

In terms of the right conditions for sap to flow, our Autumn and Winter are obviously not as cold as Canada, but we do get some very cold nights and sunny days up here, so fingers crossed.



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