Why Grafting is Preferable

• The reason for grafting Japanese maples rather than pursuing other paths to propagation is really quite simple: it works, and it works well. Individuals who buy small Japanese maples that have not gone very far in their development from nurseries often find that the trees die out or fail to grow properly. Sometimes they will grow healthily, but more often than not death or stunting occurs. This is not the case with grafting. Individuals who graft Japanese maples on average have a much higher success rate for the tree developing without any issues.
  
  

The Grafting Process

• Grafting is the least difficult form of Japanese maple propagation. With a few basic instructions, even a person without much experience in the yard or garden can do it successfully. The individual performing the grafting will take a scion, or wood cutting, from a Japanese maple that is already developed in the spring season. The scion should have a few buds on it, and it should be stored in a storage box or plastic bag between several layers of damp paper towels. When the mid-summer months arrive, the tip of the scion is cut at an angle and secured with grafting tape against a small cut made in an existing Japanese maple. The plastic bag's interior is then dampened with a combination of water and fungicide and placed over the scion where it is secured to the tree. It must be checked periodically to make sure the water and fungicide mixture has not evaporated and taken away once the graft appears to be growing properly.
  
  

Alternatives

• There are basically 2 options for Japanese maple propagation besides grafting. The individual in question can grow the tree from seed, which is usually the least successful method, or he can purchase a small tree that is already in the initial stages of development from a nursery. At first glance, it may not seem difficult to grow Japanese maples, because once they are fully developed they are rather resilient. At full growth, they are tolerant of a variety of water, soil and lighting conditions up to a degree, but when they first begin to grow they are especially fragile and susceptible to dying prematurely. While buying one from a nursery and planting it is more likely to be successful than growing from seed, grafting onto a tree that is already present is the best bet.
  
  

Encouraging Growth and Development of Japanese Maples

• While grafting may have a high success rate, there are some general issues that should be taken into consideration when growing Japanese maples. They are tolerant of many conditions, but optimizing their preferred conditions will only help them in their development. The owner can ensure a healthy tree by watering it once a day, especially when it is in its early stages of development. More water is necessary in hot summer months and months that have little rainfall. Ideal soil conditions are an area that drains off water quickly, and sphagnum peat spread around its base will help a good deal as it grows. In addition to keeping an eye on these water and soil conditions, regular pruning will eliminate the risk of pest infestations.