Hi, We recently bought an Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo' which was in beautiful condition. It is planted in a semi-shady spot in clay soil (although we did plant it with lots of compost). We have just returned from holiday and it is not looking well at all. The leaves are starting to brown around the edges as if it is getting ready to shed it's leaves in autumn. We live in Bristol England and have had quite a bit of rainfall recently and not much heat. Does anyone have any ideas as to how we can save it? Should we move it to another area of the garden where the soil is better (Not as much clay)? Thanks
In clay soil your tree should be planted on top of the ground and the soil mounded up around the root ball in order to provide good drainage With the heavy rains we have been having, and with you being away, your poor tree is probably far too wet Check that out, and if it is, raise it up above ground level as a matter of some urgency, or it will not recover
