Akita Yatsubusa Japanese Maple is a slow-growing dwarf variety well-suited for bonsai or our Cedar Boxes. Small leaves emerge bright green in spring, hold their color through summer, then turn warm shades of yellow and orange in fall. With dense branching and short internodes, it develops a compact, layered form and responds very well to pruning. In addition to bonsai, try Akita Yatsubusa Japanese Maple in compact planting areas or rock gardens. Shield from hot afternoon sun for best color. Botanical Name: Acer palmatum ‘Akita Yatsubusa’ USDA Zone: 5 – 9 Average Height: 3 – 4 Average Width: 2 – 4 Sun Exposure: Partial Sun Planting/Care Instructions Before planting, have your soil tested to see what amendments are needed. Click this link to check your frost dates: Frost Dates . Choose the right time of the year to plant according to your zone. When you receive your , soak the root ball in water for 20 minutes upon arrival before planting or potting. Gently break up the root ball. This will help the roots grow out into the soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of your tree. Fill the hole tightly with soil to avoid any air pockets. Plant your with the root flare above the soil line. Japanese maples planted in the ground generally do not need fertilizer. Container-grown maples can use a bit of slow-release fertilizer. However, variegated cultivars should not be fertilized. Be sure to water your trees. In addition, pull weeds out when they appear. They take nutrients from the soil. Young grafted trees will continue to have new growth on the rootstock for several years. If new buds or branches develop on the rootstock, remove them before they grow larger. If a larger branch develops, use sterile pruners to remove it. Prune trees as needed to encourage growth. Always sterilize your pruners when pruning Japanese maples to prevent the spread of diseases. If you have trouble keeping up with your pruners, check out our locally hand-made leather pruner holster here. Lastly, enjoy your and your time in the garden!