Acer
All these highly decorative trees are easily cultivated but generally dislike shallow soil over chalk. Those with delicate foliage, will be better if given protection from strong winds. Although Japanese maples are fully hardy, young plants can be damaged by late frosts after they have burst into growth in spring. At this stage a protective covering, of fleece for example, is necessary on frosty nights.
Japanese maples prefer light shade for part of the day, which reduces the risk of scorch in very hot weather. Japanese and snake-bark maples make ideal subjects for cultivation in containers for which an equal parts blend of John Innes No. 3 and ericaceous compost is recommended.
