Troubleshooting
Bloodgood Japanese Maple problems — and how to fix them
Bloodgood Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Leaf scorch
Brown, crispy leaf edges caused by hot afternoon sun, drought, or drying winds; relocate or provide shade cloth and consistent moisture.
Verticillium wilt
Fungal disease causing sudden wilting of branches; remove affected wood, sterilise tools, avoid wounding stems.
Aphids
Distort new growth in spring; treat with insecticidal soap or encourage ladybirds. Usually non-fatal.
Root rot (Phytophthora)
Common in waterlogged or poorly drained soils and containers; ensure excellent drainage and avoid overwatering.
Frost damage to new growth
Late spring frosts damage newly emerged foliage; fleece overnight if frost is forecast when buds have burst.
Prevent bloodgood japanese maple problems before they start
Most bloodgood japanese maple issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Bloodgood Japanese Maple problems — FAQ
Why is my bloodgood japanese maple leaf scorch?
Brown, crispy leaf edges caused by hot afternoon sun, drought, or drying winds; relocate or provide shade cloth and consistent moisture.
Why is my bloodgood japanese maple verticillium wilt?
Fungal disease causing sudden wilting of branches; remove affected wood, sterilise tools, avoid wounding stems.
Why is my bloodgood japanese maple aphids?
Distort new growth in spring; treat with insecticidal soap or encourage ladybirds. Usually non-fatal.
Why is my bloodgood japanese maple root rot (phytophthora)?
Common in waterlogged or poorly drained soils and containers; ensure excellent drainage and avoid overwatering.
Why is my bloodgood japanese maple frost damage to new growth?
Late spring frosts damage newly emerged foliage; fleece overnight if frost is forecast when buds have burst.