This is how you do everything right

Why repotting is so important

Many a hobby gardener might ask why repotting is so important - after all, the tree is fertilized regularly so that there is actually no lack of nutrients. Well, repotting is not only so important because of a possible lack of nutrients, but above all because of the compaction and thus hardening of the substrate. In pots, plant substrate tends to condense very much over time. The result is that water and nutrients can only be absorbed in insufficient quantities and the tree eventually suffers a deficiency. This problem can be counteracted with fresh, loose substrate.

Choosing the right time

With regard to the right time to repot, the experts argue, with two different directions. Both sides have very good arguments for and against their point of view, so that you can proceed with the most sound justification for yourself.

Repot before budding

Usually, Japanese maples should be repotted before they sprout - ergo at the beginning of March. The reason for this is that the tree is still in hibernation by then and has therefore not yet developed any new, fine roots. When repotting, these fine roots are damaged, so that the water supply to the tree is disturbed.

Repot during emergence

Proponents of repotting argue differently about six to eight weeks later, when the tender leaves have already developed well. The reason for this lies in the energy stored in the form of sugar and starch, which in winter The roots remain and only in the spring with the budding into the above-ground parts of the plant got. At least if a root pruning is carried out - as when raising a bonsai - a later pruning is recommended.