acer in pot

Marilyn Henderson

I made a post today about an acer in a pot on which nearly all the leaves have shrivelled up and the shrub seems to be dying. The soil is moist, maybe even wet after all the rain. It is in a reasonably shady position. Its planted in a peat compost and seemed all right until a couple of weeks ago. We are going to try repotting it but would appreciate some advice on what might be wrong and how to rectify it.

figrat

I note that you say the soil is "even wet". Is the pot free standing or in a saucer? If the latter, it might be an idea to remove it so the soil can drain. How big is it? If feasible, it might be helpful to tip it out and have a look at the root system and checking for any grubs. There is a nasty White c- shaped maggoty thing with a dark head which is the larva of the vine weevil, which eats roots, but I've not heard of it attacking an acer of substantial size. Another reason might be that the young leaves got blasted by the recent cold snap, in which case it will probably look less than it's best this year, but will hopefully recover. I'm sure you will get other replies and advice.

Yellow Daisy

I have trouble growing acers as I find they get wind burnt really easily. Is it in a sheltered position as well as shady? Sorry I can't help much more than that!

jani

Hi, I have had my Acer in a pot for the last 25 years. A few years ago I noticed the same as you. I took the plant out of the pot, washed the roots and repotted with a tree compost, and touch wood it has been very good since. Although, when I looked at the roots there was the start of an ants nest in them, which I didnt notice on the surface.

Hope that helps and good luck as they are beautiful