Hi. I have a "lion's mane" Japanese Maple Tree. I've had it for about 8 years. I live in Rhode Island. Today is November 22nd. I Transplanted the tree today to my new home because I was advised that this is the best time to transplant it (late fall). A friend of mine helped me out by digging it up with his backhoe. While he was digging, the bucket rubbed against a couple spots on the trunk which scraped off some of the bark. He also snapped off a couple branches. Should I do something to these spots to protect the tree? Also, should I prune the tree at all? If so, when? And one more question...is there anything I should do to protect it from the cold winter? Just to let you know...the tree is about 5-6 feet tall. If anyone can help me, I would deeply appreciate it...I absolutely love this tree and I don't want to loose it. Thank You.
Will wait for the experts to weigh in, but from discussions re: this similar question from before, the answer seems to be less is more (leave bare). I would avoid pruning anything but deadwood if just recently transplanted. Mulch with several inches, but leave space around the trunk (especially damaged parts!). How well did the rootball survive the backhoe? This was my bigger concern reading your post. I asked about a natural bees wax salve awhile back called phytech 50 but didn't hear about anyone's experience. FYI the formal name for your maple is Acer palmatum 'Shishigashira'. There should be some great pics of in the photo gallery section. Post one of yours if you get a chance. You are right - it is a stunner.
Hi. Thanks for your reply. I'm new to this..it took me a while to find my posting. This is actually the first time I've moved a tree this age. The roots didn't appear to get alot of damage. One of them got split up the middle. I hope this doesn't kill it. But the rest seemed very big and healthy. I dug the hole and slowly backfilled it watering it every few shovels to try to fill the voids under the roots. I couldn't take pictures today because it was dark out when I got home from work, but I will on Thursday. I hope it lives..its funny I worry about it like it is my child lol. I appreciate your input. Thanks again.
The only thing I would add is that if any of the damage has left a 'rough' edge or cut then trim this neatly with clean secuteurs to help avoid disease I think it will be fine. Good luck.
