AusBonsai

Hey all,

My local garden center has some nice mid size tree's and there is an Acer Rubrum in there that has caught my eye a few times, only problem is it is $60. I don't mind paying this but it will be a trunk chop and I would like to know what I am getting myself in for before I fork out the cash.

Does anybody have any experience with these? I know they are a larger leafed maple but will they reduce well, or do they need to stay as a larger tree to look proportional? The info I have found so far says they are one of the hardiest maples but they prefer a wetter soil, so other than the soil would they be treated just like a trident?

Any info would be great, and if anybody is growing one I would love a pic

Cheers,
Kez

Seems to be plenty of specimens around on the internet Kez.
Check out google images and you will see some decent trees.

I think I might actually have a little baby in a grow bed fattening up too from memory.

Watch for the graft near ground level - what happens there can make the decision for you. You can layer trees off the top, and get three or four trees for your investment. If there is a nasty graft, you can layer just millimetres under the graft, and so get the root-stock strength without the ugly angles that often occur. Seal all cuts very carefully. Whatever you choose to do, it will be a long term program. There are also variants with finer leaves that might be worth chasing up. Good luck.

Gavin

For $60, head to a local bonsai nursery and pic up something that has already had a couple of chops.

If it was $20, I'd say go for it, but $60 should get you a decent start.

I agree with Scott. If this was a species that was fantastic for bonsai and hard to find, or had some really good bonsai features already, $60 might be worth it. I would probably pay that for a JBP since I haven't found many here, or maybe a trident maple. Or casuarina. Exactly what is worth the money depends on your situation.

I know there are people working with them in the eastern US where they are everywhere, but the impression I've had is that it's more because they're available than because they're great for bonsai.

Ultimately, only you can decide if it's worth it to you. Post some pics if you decide to get one.