Mop Head Standard Acer - underpotted water deprivation

hrafndot

I have a lovely standard Mop head Acer (greem) which I rescued from Homebase and have cherished. I have been ill for a couple of years and not potted it on as I should have while roots were dormant.

It is in a pot about 1ft diameter and about 1 1/2 depth. It is already showing signs of water deprivation, i.e. 4 or 5 yellowing leaves and if I don't act now, it will be a sorry sight by July.

Obviously I will water it religiously but can anyone think of anything I can do to keep it looking happier until autumn. It is well shaded

thanks if you can think of anything

serena

You don't need to pot it on while the roots are dormant - in fact, that could be the worst time, as no new roots will grow into the new compost, and there's a risk of the existing roots becoming waterlogged and rotting.

I'd recommend repotting when new growth commences,so that the roots are actively growing into the new compost and taking up the nutrients for growth- but it's not too late now.

Choose a pot just one size up - say 14 inches diameter, I'd also suggest using a soil based compost, John Innes No.3, and maybe mixing in some multipurpose to lighten it a bit.

Water well once repotted, then allow to dry out a bit before watering throughly again. Start feeding after about six weeks, and then weekly after that until the autumn.

hrafndot

Thank you, you've made my weekend very happy!