FAO Yak.

[chief_wiggam]

Hi Yakky,

Bit of a cheek I know but I would like to tap into your knowledge of all things flora.

I have a Red Japanese Maple of which I am very fond of having grown it from a stick some 8 years ago.

My problem is that one half is covered in vibrant red coloured leaves but the other half seems dead to me. Is it ok to chop the dead half off or should I just leave it in the vain hope that it corrects its self next Spring.

As ever, I appreciate any advise.

[pfclassof61]

This has happened to two of my established red-leaved maples and to a neighbours.

Don't think they can be saved. I got four more in a special offer from Groupon - but I won't plant one in the same place. Got a red cordiline to replace the maple

[pompeygun]

Hi Yakky,

Bit of a cheek I know but I would like to tap into your knowledge of all things flora.

I have a Red Japanese Maple of which I am very fond of having grown it from a stick some 8 years ago.

My problem is that one half is covered in vibrant red coloured leaves but the other half seems dead to me. Is it ok to chop the dead half off or should I just leave it in the vain hope that it corrects its self next Spring.

As ever, I appreciate any advise.

I'd chop it back until you get to live stem. Then I'd seal where you've cut it back. I've saved a shrub like that.

Be interesting to hear Yak's comments.

[theyak2]

You dont say if Its in a pot or the ground?

If Its a pot, find a suitable location out of winds which burn the leaves and also with some shade. Dig a hole twice the size of the rootball. Folk with eracacious soil and a little fish blood and bone for the roots which you nay need to tease out. Water in well. Cut back the dead wood. This should be done in early Sprint before it buds.

Die back is prevalent in maples that are in pots or not sufficient in correct soil or not fed correct minerals and trace elements.

If Its in ground already, testin for lime, which it hates and cut back dead wood which may infect the remainder.