Bonsai.ch Acer buergerianum Sycamore maple

Acer buergerianum belongs to the family of soapberry plants and is originally from East Asia. In spring, the new leaves are copper-brown and gradually turn green. In autumn, the leaves change color from yellow to fiery red.

As a bonsai, the trident maple is easy to care for, robust, and winter hardy. It tolerates strong pruning very well.

As a garden bonsai, the trident maple must be kept outdoors year-round. It prefers a sheltered spot in partial shade but also thrives in full sun. During the summer months, it should be watered generously, while in winter, the soil should be kept just slightly moist, watering only on frost-free days. For fertilization during the growing season (March to August), an organic fertilizer in the form of pellets is suitable, which can be placed in small containers on the soil. In summer, liquid fertilizer can also be alternated. Approximately every two years, in early spring, before the leaves emerge, it is time to repot. A well-draining soil, such as a homemade mix, is ideal as a substrate.

To achieve fine and well-branched twigs, the Japanese maple should be regularly pinched during new growth in spring. The shoots that grow afterwards should be allowed to extend several centimeters before being cut back to a pair of leaves using bonsai scissors. Branches can be shaped using anodized aluminum wire. Thick and less flexible branches can be bent using a clamp. The removal of branches and stubs should be done with concave or bud scissors. Cut surfaces should be sealed with a wound paste to prevent the entry of pathogens such as bacteria and fungi.