Maple - Japanese Twombly's Red Sentinel

Directions for Planting and Care

Planting and caring for your Twombly’s Red Sentinel Japanese Maple is simple and will add an elegant, unique element to your garden:

Planting

Select the Right Location: Choose a sunny or partially shaded area for your Twombly’s Red Sentinel. While it can tolerate some afternoon shade, it thrives in full sun for the most vibrant leaf color.

Prepare the Soil: Ensure well-drained soil, ideally amended with organic material, to help establish strong roots. Although it tolerates various soil types, avoid planting in consistently wet soil.

Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth to allow for proper root expansion.

Plant the Tree: Gently remove the tree from its container and place the root ball in the hole. Ensure that the top of the root system is level with the surrounding ground. Fill the hole with native soil, packing it down lightly to remove air pockets.

Water Thoroughly: After planting, give the tree a good watering to help settle the soil and ensure the roots get the moisture they need to establish.

Care

Regular Watering: While the Twombly’s Red Sentinel is fairly drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering during dry periods, especially in the first year after planting.

Pruning: Prune in late summer or early fall to maintain its upright, columnar shape. Remove any dead or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth and enhance the tree’s appearance.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring or early summer to support growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of color.

Twombly’s Red Sentinel Japanese Maple offers stunning seasonal color and an upright, columnar shape, making it a perfect addition to any garden, especially in tight spaces or areas that need a unique tree with year-round interest. Its striking red leaves in spring and fall, combined with its easy care requirements, make it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.