How Close Can You Plant a Japanese Maple Near Your House?

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Robby

This spring I planted an osakazuki maple (6 ft tall) on the right side of my east side garden. On the left, perhaps 12-15 ft away, I have a baby hogyuko growing. Smack in the middle I have a snofozam weeping cherry (serpentine). Did I plant my trees too close – 6+ ft between hogyuko and cherry, and 6+ ft between cherry and osakazuki? My reasoning was, I doubt the trees will reach full height potential because Im zone 5a. But now Im second guessing myself. Ideas? Related Stories

Japanese maple trees are renowned for their grace and beauty, with elegantly shaped leaves that turn vibrant shades of red, orange, or yellow in autumn. Their relatively slow growth and compact size make them ideal specimen trees for small yards. However, their vigorous root systems mean you need to allow enough space when planting near structures. In this article, we’ll examine optimal spacing for Japanese maples, risks of planting too close, and solutions for smaller lots

Understanding Japanese Maple Root Habits

To determine appropriate setbacks it’s helpful to understand some key traits of Japanese maple roots

  • They have aggressive, fibrous roots that spread 2-3 times the canopy width.

  • A deep taproot forms, along with many surface roots.

  • The roots easily penetrate tiny openings and dislike disturbance.

  • Once established, they become difficult to redirect away from foundations and pipes.

Risks of Planting Too Close

Locating Japanese maples too near buildings or utilities can lead to:

  • Foundation damage as shallow expanding roots crack and displace concrete.

  • Pipe obstruction when roots eagerly grow into plumbing joints and cracks.

  • Sidewalk disruption as surface roots lift and buckle pavement.

  • Poor tree health due to heat reflected from structures and dry soil.

  • Problematic pruning and removal that can damage buildings as trees grow too large.

Recommended Minimum Spacing

Most experts suggest allowing an area equal to the mature canopy spread between Japanese maples and structures. For example, a cultivar reaching 15 feet across needs at least 15 feet of space. Small varieties should be at least 10 feet from buildings.

Ideal Growing Conditions

For vibrant growth, Japanese maples require:

  • Rich, acidic, well-drained soil.

  • Consistent moisture and mulch.

  • Cool root zone and afternoon shade.

  • Shelter from strong winds.

The hot, dry area near homes is often deficient in these.

Solutions for Small Yards

While adequate spacing is best, you can still grow Japanese maples in small yards by:

  • Selecting the most compact cultivar appropriate for your space.

  • Installing root barriers along foundations.

  • Growing young trees in large containers.

  • Planting in a far corner rather than mid-yard.

  • Providing ample water and mulch.

Best Practices for Planting

Follow these tips when installing Japanese maples near structures:

  • Prepare a wide planting hole no deeper than the root ball.

  • Ensure the first root flare sits at ground level.

  • Backfill with native soil, tamping to remove air pockets.

  • Water thoroughly after planting and mulch well.

  • Stake the tree for 1-2 years until established.

With their elegant form and colorful foliage, Japanese maples are prized landscape specimens. But their vigorous roots require planning proper placement near buildings. Allow adequate distance between the tree’s mature canopy spread and any structures. Choose compact cultivars and provide ideal growing conditions for small space solutions. Follow best planting practices to give your Japanese maple a healthy start in its new home. With informed spacing choices, you can safely incorporate these beautiful trees within landscapes of any size.

planting japanese maple near house

Episode 71: Planting Japanese Maples Close to Structures

FAQ

Where not to plant Japanese maple?

Excessive sun exposure: Some Japanese maple varieties can tolerate full sun, but others prefer some afternoon shade. If your tree gets intense afternoon sun during the summer, the leaves may scorch, turn brown, and curl at the edges.

How far does a Japanese maple need to be planted from a house?

Anyhow, a full grown specimen could conceivably push 20′ high and wide and Wayside Gardens puts ‘Orange Dream’ in right about that neighborhood. Japanese maples typically put roots out a bit wider than their dripline, so worst case scenario puts the roots out around 25′, possibly a few feet more unless you keep it …

Can you plant Japanese maple close to foundation?

Nah this is totally fine. A Japanese maple won’t damage a properly constructed foundation, even planted at half this distance. Someday you will need to trim branches that start to grow over the roof – that’s about it.

What is the best Japanese maple to plant near the house?

Upright Japanese Maples

I prefer upright growing Japanese maples planted out in the yard or near the house in non-window obstructing situations. Popular examples of upright growing Japanese maples are Bloodgood, Sango kaku, and Tsukasa silhouette.

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