How to Plant Japanese Maple Trees in Kansas

Overview

Kansas Forests recommends the Japanese maple tree (Acer palmatum) for planting throughout Kansas. The tree grows readily in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. Kansas encompasses zones 5b and 6a and should be planted in late fall or late spring when frost danger passes. Japanese maple trees are fairly disease resistant and provide attractive foliage. Kansas gardeners can choose any type of Japanese maple for planting.

Step 1

Choose a location for the Japanese maple tree in sun or shade and any type of soil.

Step 2

Dig a hole for the Japanese maple tree that's equally deep and two to three times as wide as the tree's rootball. Remove any rocks, sticks, weeds and roots from the hole.

Step 3

Remove the Japanese maple tree from its container. Massage the rootball to break it apart. Check the roots to see if any are tangled or circled. Unwind and untangle these roots gently.

Step 4

Place the Japanese maple sapling into the hole at the same depth as it was planted in the container. Spread the roots out by hand. Check to ensure the tree is planted straight and fill in the hole with soil.

Step 5

Water the newly planted Japanese maple tree until the soil becomes saturated. Apply to the soil near the base of the tree a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch.