Question
Hi,

I'd like to grow a Japanese Maple indoors.  I am a member of the National Arbor Day Foundation and so receive many trees, some which I plant, some which I donate.  In this case I would like to start a Japanese Maple in a pot and plant it when it is a bit larger (probably 1-2 years later).  

Is this possible, or does the tree require its dormancy during the winter?  If I were to grow a Japanese Maple indoors, how would I go about it, and how long should I keep it indoors before moving it outdoors?

Normally I'd just plant it right away, but I love the tree so much I'd like to enjoy it in my home for awhile.  What do you think?

If I cannot plant a Japanese Maple, what other types of tree may do well indoors?  Besides bonsai, of course...I have plenty of those already.

Thanks,

     Rob

Answer
I am a member of National Arbor Day Foundation, as well. I have about 30 of their trees in pots on my deck right now.

To best answer your question, I will do a refresher course in biology. The genetic make up of houseplants has evolved from adapting to the conditions of low light, low humitity, poor air circulation, and being confined to a pot. When we try to bring in a plant that is not adapted to those conditions, it will suffer and die.

Some trees that are able to grow indoors are, Abutilon, Ficus, Philodendron, Schefflera, Fatsia, Rubber tree, Palms, Banana tree, Avocado, Citrus, Aralia, Deffenbachia, Norfork pine, Yucca, Corn plant, Fiddleleaf fig,and Monkey puzzle, to name a few. Some of these plants can become very large after a few years, so they will need plenty of room to grow. Unless you live in a very warm climate, they will not be able to be planted outside.

So I hope this will help you to understand the difference between indoor and outdoor plants. Before you plant your Maple, be sure you understand that they have requirements as well. Do some research on the best place to plant it.

bakerplanter